The Boston Red Sox recently acquired infielder Caleb Durbin from the Milwaukee Brewers, sparking speculation among fans that Durbin will occupy the third base position in the 2026 season. However, the Red Sox’s Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow clarified that no final decisions have been made regarding Durbin’s defensive assignment or Marcelo Mayer’s infield role. This leaves questions about where each player will fit as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
Versatility and Performance Shape Red Sox Considerations
Durbin, a versatile 5’7” infielder who made his Major League Baseball debut on April 18, 2025, impressed during his rookie season with the Brewers. Appearing in 136 games exclusively at third base, he recorded a .256 batting average, a .334 on-base percentage, and a .387 slugging percentage, resulting in a .721 OPS. His contributions included 11 home runs, 53 RBIs, 60 runs scored, 25 doubles, and 18 stolen bases. Durbin’s performance earned him a third-place finish in the National League Rookie of the Year voting, despite moderate power numbers. Although he underwent arthroscopic elbow surgery in October 2025, the procedure is not expected to hinder his participation in spring training.
Meanwhile, Marcelo Mayer, Boston’s 2021 first-round pick, made his major league debut on May 24, 2025. In 44 games, Mayer posted a .228 batting average with an on-base percentage of .272 and a slugging percentage of .402, combining for a .674 OPS. His offensive output included four home runs, 10 RBIs, 20 runs scored, eight doubles, and one triple over 127 at-bats. However, Mayer’s season was affected by injuries, including a right wrist sprain that sidelined him in late July, limiting his on-field opportunities.
Implications for the Team’s Infield Strategy
The Red Sox leadership’s hesitation to commit to specific positions for Durbin and Mayer underscores the challenge of optimizing a young, talented infield. Durbin’s flexibility to play both second and third base provides the team with options, while Mayer’s youth and potential make his final defensive placement critical for his development. Craig Breslow noted Durbin’s versatility without confirming a definitive role, reflecting the team’s ongoing evaluation process.
“Craig Breslow says the Red Sox have not yet decided where Caleb Durbin will play defensively (2B or 3B), but talked up his versatility (via @ChrisCotillo).”
— Craig Breslow, CBO Boston Red Sox
As the Red Sox head toward spring training, determining which infield positions best suit each player will be vital to strengthening the team’s defense and offensive output. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see if Mayer can overcome health setbacks and establish himself as a consistent presence in the majors, while Durbin’s adaptability could become a key asset in Boston’s evolving lineup.
Craig Breslow says the Red Sox have not yet decided where Caleb Durbin will play defensively (2B or 3B), but talked up his versatility (via @ChrisCotillo). pic.twitter.com/PweYjynTaU
— Gordo (@BOSSportsGordo) February 9, 2026
