The Boston Red Sox are nearing the start of Spring Training with a roster that still feels unfinished, particularly on the position-player side. While the pitching staff appears set, questions remain about how Boston will balance a surplus of offensive talent with limited everyday opportunities.
At the center of that uncertainty is Triston Casas, the club’s long-term first base option whose development has been disrupted by consecutive injury-plagued seasons. With new additions and positional overlaps complicating the picture, the Red Sox are running short on time to clarify their infield and designated hitter plans.
That uncertainty was highlighted this week when MLB.com reporter Ian Browne provided an update on Casas’ recovery. “Casas likely won’t be a full go until May 1 or so as he recovers from a ruptured left patellar tendon,” Browne wrote, adding that the Red Sox still face difficult decisions once he is ready to return.
Casas’ recovery adds pressure to roster decisions
Casas was once viewed as a fixture at first base, expected to deliver 30-plus home run power annually. However, major injuries in each of the past two seasons forced the Red Sox to seek insurance, leading to the acquisition of Willson Contreras, a right-handed bat capable of handling first base duties.
Triston Casas #36 of the Red Sox catches a foul ball. Greg Fiume/Getty Images
Because Casas still has minor league options remaining, Boston could choose to extend his time at Triple-A Worcester to help him regain timing. With spring training less than a week away, Boston’s decisions surrounding Casas could shape not only the early part of the season, but the long-term alignment of its young core.
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