The Boston Red Sox are gearing up for the upcoming season, and fans are eagerly anticipating the team's infield alignment. With the recent trade of Caleb Durbin, the Red Sox are left with a crucial decision: who will take over as their third baseman? The answer may lie in the skills and strengths of two players: Caleb Durbin and Marcelo Mayer.
The Battle for Third Base
Caleb Durbin, a seasoned veteran, was the Milwaukee Brewers' starting third baseman for most of the last season. However, the Red Sox have not yet committed to making him their third baseman. This is where Marcelo Mayer steps in. Mayer, a talented defender, had a plus-two outs above average at third base last season, despite playing less than Durbin. The question remains: who will be the Red Sox's third baseman?
The Red Sox's Dilemma
The Red Sox are faced with a difficult decision. Mayer, a great defender, is likely to be better defensively than Durbin at both third base and second base. However, Durbin has more big league experience at third base, and Mayer came up as a shortstop. The Red Sox must decide which alignment will give them the best overall infield defense.
The Hitting Factor
As a hitter, Durbin has proven more than Mayer in the big leagues. Durbin slashed .256/.354/.387 with 11 home runs last season, and he had a .777 OPS in the postseason. After June 1, he had a .270/.346/.415 slash line in the regular season. Durbin's swing figures to play well at Fenway Park, and he is expected to be an everyday option at either second or third base. Mayer, on the other hand, has yet to prove himself as a hitter in the big leagues.
The Final Piece of the Puzzle
With Trevor Story and Willson Contreras seemingly locked in at shortstop and first base, the Red Sox's infield alignment is taking shape. Mayer and Durbin's spots are the last pieces to the puzzle. The Red Sox must decide whether to go with Mayer's defensive prowess or Durbin's hitting ability. The decision will have a significant impact on the team's performance, and fans are eagerly awaiting the Red Sox's final move.
