Willson Contreras has emerged as the Boston Red Sox's new solution for first base, and fans are eager to see how this change will impact the team. The organization hopes that with their only offensive addition of the offseason—so far—Contreras will help them move past the uncertainty that has plagued this position.
While Triston Casas is another player likely to play a role in the lineup, the Red Sox made a strategic decision to acquire Contreras from the St. Louis Cardinals. This decision is based on his impressive batting skills, which are expected to enhance the middle of the batting order, alongside his solid infield defense. His transition from catcher to first base last season proved successful, showcasing his versatility on the field.
According to Craig Breslow, the chief baseball officer, Contreras brings both intensity and a competitive spirit to a position the team identified as needing improvement. Breslow highlighted that Contreras, a right-handed hitter, fits well at Fenway Park, especially given his ability to hit the ball with power when pulling it in the air. "We’re thrilled to have him join our roster, as he adds depth to our lineup and provides much-needed offensive strength," Breslow stated.
Contreras is locked into a two-year contract with the Red Sox, valued at $17.25 million, which counts toward their luxury tax obligations.
This acquisition has placed Casas in a somewhat challenging position. After a breakout performance in 2023, he faced significant setbacks due to injuries in 2024 and 2025, including a serious left knee injury last May. His struggles continued into the early part of last season, where he posted disappointing statistics: a batting average of .182, an on-base percentage of .277, and a slugging percentage of .303. These numbers starkly contrast with his reputation as a powerful hitter, as he has historically been known for his strength at the plate.
In recent discussions, team officials have emphasized that the priority for Casas is to regain his health after enduring a tough couple of years. While they express optimism about his potential, they have refrained from guaranteeing any major league playing time at this moment.
Casas has been the starting first baseman on Opening Day for the Red Sox for the past three seasons. The last player to have a longer consecutive stint at this position was Kevin Youkilis, who held the role for five straight years from 2006 to 2010.
Breslow acknowledged Casas’s tremendous potential but noted the unfortunate reality of his injury history over the past two years. "What he needs to focus on now is doing everything he can to return to the field. He’s currently making positive progress and will have opportunities to contribute to the team. We’ll determine what that looks like as we go along."
If and when Casas is fit to play, whether at the start of the season or soon after, one possibility might be sending him to Triple-A Worcester. This decision will largely rely on his performance, as well as the current health status of Contreras and others vying for designated hitter roles.
The depth chart beyond Contreras and Casas includes utility players such as Romy Gonzalez, who is expected to see time at designated hitter and possibly second base, Triston Gray, acquired via trade from the Rays in November, and Nick Sogard, who started 11 games at first base in 2025. Kristian Campbell primarily focuses on outfield defense, but the Sox may consider giving him another shot at first base. Nate Eaton, while versatile, has yet to play at first.
The need for adding Contreras and ensuring Casas' health becomes even more critical, particularly since the farm system lacks depth in first-base prospects. Nathan Hickey, 26 years old, played mainly at first for Worcester last season, finishing with a .733 OPS. Meanwhile, Brooks Bannon, a 21-year-old catcher exploring first base, possesses significant raw power but struggled to hit effectively while with Double-A Portland last season.
Interestingly, when the Red Sox were grappling with uncertainties at the first base position and had an abundance of outfielders, they did not explore training Roman Anthony for this new role, as reported by a league source prior to the Contreras transaction. While Anthony likely has the athleticism and maturity to adapt, the team maintained their approach from last spring, dismissing the idea of moving him from the outfield at that time.
As for the primary contenders at first base for the upcoming season, they include Triston Casas, Abraham Toro, Romy Gonzalez, Nathaniel Lowe, and Nick Sogard. Looking ahead, Willson Contreras is projected to take on the starting first baseman role in 2026. The major league depth includes Triston Casas, Romy Gonzalez, Tristan Gray, Kristian Campbell, and Nick Sogard.
Currently, there are no standout prospects in the pipeline to watch closely for the first base position.
For further insights or questions, feel free to reach out to Tim Healey at timothy.healey@globe.com or follow him on Twitter @timbhealey.
