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Mayer's Offense Under Scrutiny for Red Sox Roster Spot

2/21/2026

46 11 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Boston Red Sox are entering the 2026 season with infield competition, and manager Alex Cora says Marcelo Mayer must improve his offense to win an Opening Day roster spot.
Mayer batted .228 with four home runs last season and is competing for second base against Caleb Durbin, who has mainly played third base in camp.
The Red Sox open the season against the Cincinnati Reds on March 26, 2026.

History

Historical Context

The Boston Red Sox won the 1918 World Series, their fifth championship, defeating the Chicago Cubs in six games. This victory occurred amid World War I, which shortened the season and led to many players enlisting. The Red Sox's subsequent trade of Babe Ruth to the Yankees in 1920 initiated an 86-year championship drought, often attributed to the "Curse of the Bambino."

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Story summary

The Boston Red Sox are entering the 2026 season with infield competition, and manager Alex Cora says Marcelo Mayer must improve his offense to win an Opening Day roster spot.
Mayer batted .228 with four home runs last season and is competing for second base against Caleb Durbin, who has mainly played third base in camp.
The Red Sox open the season against the Cincinnati Reds on March 26, 2026.

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