As the Boston Red Sox prepare for Spring Training, there’s an exciting subplot for fans to follow beyond potential free-agent signings. The Red Sox have developed one of the top farm systems in baseball, and several of their top prospects are nearing their MLB debuts. Among these prospects are outfielder Roman Anthony and infielder/outfielder Kristian Campbell, both of whom made appearances in Triple-A last season. With their progress, they may soon be ready for the big leagues.
Anthony and Campbell: Likely Opening Day Roster Additions
FanSided’s Hunter Noll has predicted that both Roman Anthony and Kristian Campbell will make the Red Sox’s Opening Day roster. While Campbell’s chances are higher due to the team’s uncertain situation at second base, Anthony, despite the team’s outfield depth, is expected to force his way onto the roster. The inclusion of both players would give Boston fans a taste of the future as they contribute to the team right from the start of the season.
Kristian Campbell, a 22-year-old prospect, has an exciting bat and could be the solution to Boston’s second base problem. With no established starter at the position, Campbell’s hitting ability and right-handed bat make him a strong candidate for a roster spot. Noll suggests that Campbell, a 2023 draft pick, has a good chance to earn a place in the Opening Day lineup, though the Red Sox could still pursue additional free agents for the position. Campbell’s potential could significantly impact the Red Sox’s roster construction.
Roman Anthony’s Case for the Outfield
Despite the Red Sox already having a full outfield, 20-year-old Roman Anthony, the team’s top position player prospect, has the potential to break into the big league roster. As a highly regarded talent, Anthony could prove his worth in Spring Training and secure an outfield role for himself, even though the Red Sox have sufficient options in that area. Noll believes that Anthony’s performance will be closely watched by both the Red Sox and other teams, as he tries to make the jump to the Majors ahead of schedule.
Shortstop Marcelo Mayer, currently ranked as the third-best prospect in the Red Sox system, may not start the 2025 season in the MLB but remains a key figure for the team’s future. Mayer, who had been the organization’s top prospect for several years until a back injury sidelined him for part of 2024, is expected to open the season in Triple-A. However, if he continues to develop, the 21-year-old could make an impact in the MLB during the season. The performance of these young players will be pivotal to the Red Sox’s success in 2025 and beyond.
