Red Sox Speedster Seemingly Has No Spot on Opening Day Roster

Nate Eaton's path to playing time in Boston appears blocked after busy offseason

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Down the stretch last season, Nate Eaton played an important role for the Boston Red Sox, starting against left-handed pitching and finding himself on the basepaths in key moments. However, with the additions of Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Caleb Durbin in the past week, the Red Sox's infield suddenly looks overstocked, and Eaton's only path to playing time in the outfield last year was the injury to Roman Anthony. It seems Eaton may be destined to start the year in Triple-A.

Why it matters

Eaton proved his value to the Red Sox last season, but the team's offseason moves have made his path to significant playing time in 2026 unclear. This highlights the challenges minor league players can face in cracking a crowded major league roster, even after a promising debut.

The details

Down the stretch last season, Nate Eaton played a shockingly important role for the Red Sox, starting every game against left-handed pitching and finding himself on the basepaths in key moments far more frequently than fellow speedster David Hamilton. However, with the additions of Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Caleb Durbin in the past week, the Red Sox's infield suddenly looks overstocked, and Eaton's only path to playing time in the outfield last year was the injury to Roman Anthony.

  • In 2025, Eaton posted a .731 OPS/105 OPS+ and stole nine bases in 11 attempts in 41 games for the Red Sox.
  • In early February 2026, Eaton's path to playing time appears blocked with the Red Sox's offseason additions.

The players

Nate Eaton

A 29-year-old outfielder who played an important role for the Red Sox down the stretch in 2025.

Isiah Kiner-Falefa

An infielder acquired by the Red Sox in the offseason, who seems to signal the team's preference for a glove-first backup infielder over a speedy spark plug like Eaton.

Caleb Durbin

Another infielder added by the Red Sox in the offseason, further crowding the team's infield and making it difficult for Eaton to find playing time.

Romy Gonzalez

An infielder who established himself as the more important righty platoon bat over Eaton last year, batting .305 with an .826 OPS.

Roman Anthony

An outfielder whose injury last season provided Eaton with an opportunity to play, but that path to playing time may no longer be available.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.