Bold opening: The Red Sox are unleashing two of their top arms for the first spring appearances, signaling a lineup that blends fresh ambition with proven depth.
In Fort Myers, JetBlue Park will host a spring showcase headlined by Garrett Crochet taking the mound for his initial spring start this afternoon as Boston welcomes the Tampa Bay Rays.
Joining him, veteran left-hander Aroldis Chapman is slated to debut in spring action, while a group of fresh arms—Greg Weissert, Jovani Moran, Payton Tolle, Wyatt Olds, and Devin Sweet—are also expected to get apreliminary look on the bump.
As previously shared by Alex Cora, Caleb Durbin will get a constructive first game at second base, after spending most of the early camp at third base. The club anticipates Marcelo Mayer will also debut in the spring at second base on Friday, with a decision forthcoming on how Durbin and Mayer will partition defensive duties moving forward.
Offensively, Willson Contreras returns to the lineup batting third, Connor Wong handles catching duties, and Kristian Campbell is slated to serve as the designated hitter.
Telecast note: Thursday’s game won’t be televised, but fans can tune in to WEEI 850 AM for live radio coverage.
Red Sox starting lineup
- Nate Eaton, CF
- Trevor Story, SS
- Willson Contreras, 1B
- Caleb Durbin, 2B
- Connor Wong, C
- Kristian Campbell, DH
- Andruw Monasterio, 3B
- Allan Castro, LF
- Braiden Ward, RF
- Garrett Crochet, P
How to watch
- When: 1:05 p.m.
- Where: JetBlue Park, Fort Myers, Florida
- Broadcast: WEEI 850 AM
This spring debut slate reflects Boston’s plan to test depth early, while offering fans a glimpse at how Durbin and Mayer might contribute once roles are clarified. Do you think the early positioning at second base will persist, or will the club reassess as Mayer grows into his responsibilities? Share your thoughts in the comments.
