Projecting the Red Sox Opening Day roster
Boston Red Sox Opening Day is in two weeks, folks, which means it's time to project the Opening Day roster. Here's what I'm thinking it will look like:
Rotation
David Price -- After the WS performance, have to assume confidence is sky high here.
Chris Sale -- Perennial Cy Young contender.
Rick Porcello -- Consistent innings eater in a contract year.
Eduardo Rodriguez -- Needs to stay healthy because when he's on, he's on.
Nathan Eovaldi -- Had a great postseason, but health will also be a concern here.
Bullpen
Matt Barnes -- Can he close? We'll find out.
Ryan Brasier -- Could be a bright spot in an otherwise rocky bullpen.
Heath Hembree -- Shouldn't face any left-handed batters, in my opinion.
Brandon Workman -- Is finally a full-time big leaguer--and he's earned it.
Tyler Thornburg -- He's out of options and they gave up Travis Shaw for him....
Brian Johnson -- He's left-handed, can start, and has a pulse.
Hector Velazquez -- Here's your long reliever.
Catchers
Christian Vazquez -- The team's starting catcher for the past two seasons. Why change now?
Blake Swihart -- He'll be 27 this season and as a former No. 1 prospect, it seems like he'll make the team over Leon.
Infield
Steve Pearce -- Of course the World Series MVP makes the team.
Mitch Moreland -- Another good first base option. Have to imagine they'll play percentages here.
Dustin Pedroia -- Is healthy, for now, but they'll have backup.
Brock Holt -- Can swim through land.
Eduardo Nunez -- Let's hope he's better than last year.
Xander Bogaerts -- He's been the shortstop for years now, and he's one of the best.
Rafael Devers -- Wouldn't be shocked if he had a breakout year at third base and offensively.
Outfield
JD Martinez -- He'll DH and play the field a little, and will be fantastic.
Mookie Betts -- Has to be an MVP candidate again.
Andrew Benintendi -- Still a young star left fielder in the making.
Jackie Bradley Jr. -- Hopefully the defensive whiz can do a little more at-bat this year.