Nick Sogard has adjusted well to the big leagues early in his career, recording four hits and two walks in his first three games. However, whether this performance will secure him the second base position long-term remains to be seen, especially with Vaughn Grissom still rehabbing in Worcester and showing improved contact quality.
For now, Sogard is expected to continue starting at second base, alongside David Hamilton, partly because Tyler O’Neill’s illness has weakened the outfield depth and led Alex Cora to keep Ceddanne Rafaela in centerfield. Rafaela demonstrated his value with an impressive catch last night, despite initially struggling to track the ball.
Unexpectedly, the Red Sox might end up relying on a middle infield of Hamilton and Sogard in crucial games down the stretch, and the bullpen may also undergo significant changes in the coming weeks.
There is speculation that Trevor Story could return this season to reclaim his shortstop position, though it is not yet considered likely. Story is making progress in his recovery from a severe shoulder injury and is nearing the point of resuming batting practice.
Meanwhile, James Paxton, who delivered a quality start against the Royals, could be a key asset for the Red Sox in the final stretch of the season.
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