Fenway Times - February 26, 2024: Red Sox Spring Training and Team Updates

On this Monday, February 26, 2024, the Boston Red Sox are actively shaping their roster as spring training progresses. A key highlight is Tanner Houck's spring debut against the Philadelphia Phillies, where he demonstrated his potential to strengthen the team's starting rotation. Houck's performance is seen as a positive sign for the team's pitching depth, especially as the club evaluates options for the upcoming season.

Meanwhile, the Red Sox are making strategic moves off the field, with manager Alex Cora confirming recent discussions with free agent pitcher Jordan Montgomery. The team has been in close contact with Montgomery, including a Zoom meeting, bringing them closer to potentially adding him to their roster. Reports suggest that negotiations are intensifying, and fans are eager to see if a deal will be finalized soon, which could bolster the starting rotation further.

In addition to pitching developments, the team is also focusing on position battles and roster predictions. Early spring performances from prospects like Anthony, who has shown a professional demeanor in his initial big league spring training appearances, are encouraging. The team is also exploring dark horse candidates who could make the Opening Day roster, adding an element of competition and intrigue to spring training battles.

Offensively, the Red Sox showcased their resilience with a walk-off victory against the Phillies, highlighted by Tyler O’Neill making himself at home in Boston. O’Neill's performance and the team's overall spring training efforts are setting a positive tone for the upcoming season. The team has also announced their upcoming starters for the midweek road trip, providing clarity on their pitching plans as spring games continue to serve as a testing ground for roster decisions.

Overall, the Red Sox are in an active phase of roster construction, with key discussions, player evaluations, and strategic planning underway. Fans can look forward to more updates as spring training unfolds, with the team aiming to solidify their roster and gear up for a competitive 2024 season.