Fenway Times - Thursday, February 22, 2024: Red Sox Spring Training and Team Outlook
On this Thursday, the Boston Red Sox are intensifying their preparations for the upcoming season, with spring training in full swing. The team is engaging in key positional battles, notably at second base, where Vaughn Grissom is focusing on defensive fundamentals as he vies for a starting role. Meanwhile, the coaching staff, led by manager Alex Cora, is expressing optimism about the pitching staff, praising the pitchers, the new catcher, and promising prospects ahead of the first spring training game.
The Red Sox are also making strategic roster moves, re-signing pitcher Joely Rodriguez to a minor-league deal, which underscores their focus on depth and flexibility. There is ongoing speculation about roster spots, with discussions around whether Romy Gonzalez could make the Opening Day roster, highlighting the competitive nature of spring training battles. Additionally, the team has shown interest in veteran infielder Gio Urshela, aiming to bolster their infield options.
Spring training is also a time for showcasing top prospects, with reports highlighting the best power-hitting prospects across Major League Baseball, including notable talents from the Red Sox organization. The team’s focus on developing young talent and evaluating their roster options is evident as they prepare for the season opener.
In other news, the Red Sox will face a familiar opponent in the upcoming Northeastern exhibition game on Friday, where they will compete against a Lynn native, adding local interest to the event. Meanwhile, the broader baseball landscape is covered with discussions about top prospects across the league and the importance of player development.
Off the field, there is commentary on team ownership and management, with some criticism directed at team owner John Henry’s silence, suggesting a desire for more transparency or communication from leadership. Overall, the Red Sox are entering spring training with a mix of optimism, strategic moves, and a focus on developing their roster to compete effectively in the upcoming season.