How Will the 2026 Red Sox Solve Their Outfield Problem?
There is “no ceiling” on the 2026 Boston Red Sox, according to team President and CEO Sam Kennedy. He offered this message of hope at a press conference during the first full-squad workout of Spring Training. Though language that strong is hardly reflective of public opinion, there is undeniable potential for this season’s batch of Boston talent. However, a key roster problem remains present: the Red Sox have four outfielders who deserve significant playing time. Addressing this logjam could be a key to realizing all of that potential, and maybe inching closer to a ceiling-less status.
As it stands right now, the four guys vying for nightly slots in the lineup are Jarren Duran, Roman Anthony, Ceddanne Rafaela, and Wilyer Abreu. There are strong cases on both sides of the ball to be made for each player to start. Both Rafaela and Abreu were 2025 Gold Glove winners in center and right field, respectively. Largely in left, Duran also worked effectively, boasting 11 Defensive Runs Saved. The rookie Anthony demonstrated incredible worth at the plate and more often than not played as the DH. This arrangement, at first glance, seems perfect. It grows more complicated, however, with the anticipated season of Masataka Yoshida, who was sidelined for much of 2025. The Japanese star, when healthy, can be one of the Sox’s best bats, a superlative granted by manager Alex Cora himself.
Though the team has not indicated a desire to trade anyone, even during an offseason full of suitors, it is not too late. The name most often mentioned is Duran, though a Yoshida trade would not be absurd either. Short of that, the most compelling solution, for now, seems to be Yoshida in a more limited bench role. Rafaela and Abreu can continue to be near everyday starters in the field, even with Abreu’s occasional struggles against left-handed pitching. Duran and Anthony can share the left field and designated hitter duties. Thankfully, Cora has not shied away from lineup experimentation in the past. There is danger to be noted in playing around with roles; too much change can limit a player’s comfort. However, if it ends up working out, the outfield problem could be a first litmus test for how the team conducts business and sets itself up for the long road to another World Series victory.
