As Spring Training approaches for the Boston Red Sox at JetBlue Park in Fort Myers, Florida, with only days remaining before camp opens, the team continues to engage in discussions with various players and teams, aiming to strengthen their roster for the 2025 season and beyond.
Heading into the offseason, the Red Sox identified a few specific needs to address, including the addition of a right-handed hitter to complement their lineup and bolstering their infield defense. However, despite these clear areas of focus, the team has yet to make any major moves to resolve these issues.
Recently, Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter predicted that Boston could bring back a familiar face in veteran Jose Iglesias to fill the role of starting second baseman on Opening Day. Reuter suggested that Iglesias, a seasoned player, would be an ideal temporary solution, allowing prospects like Kristian Campbell and Marcelo Mayer more time in the minors before making their major league debut. At 35 years old, Iglesias could transition into a utility role once one of these younger talents is ready to take over at second base. Additionally, Iglesias’ positive presence in the clubhouse could serve as an asset to a team looking to bounce back after a disappointing year.
Iglesias’ connection to the Red Sox dates back to 2009 when he was signed as an international free agent. He made his major league debut in 2011 before being traded to the Detroit Tigers in 2013. Since then, he has played for several teams, including the Cincinnati Reds, Baltimore Orioles, Los Angeles Angels, Colorado Rockies, New York Mets, and even had another stint in Boston.
In 2024, Iglesias emerged as a fan favorite while playing for the New York Mets, posting an impressive .337 batting average, an .830 OPS, four home runs, 26 RBIs, and six stolen bases in 85 games. His catchy hit song, “OMG,” even became a rallying cry for the team.
While a one-year deal with Iglesias might be a sensible move, it is important to consider that the Red Sox already have several options on their roster who could play second base until Campbell is ready for a call-up. Players such as Vaughn Grissom—who was acquired in the Chris Sale trade and missed a significant portion of 2024—David Hamilton, Ceddanne Rafaela, or Romy Gonzalez could be used at second base, each with multiple years of team control remaining on their contracts. Given this, it may be more prudent for the Red Sox to evaluate what they have in these players before seeking a veteran who could only be a short-term solution.
