Red Sox Dark Horse Emerges to Unseat Marcelo Mayer

Mikey Romero could be a surprise Opening Day starter at second base for Boston.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Boston Red Sox's infield alignment is still not completely settled, with the second base and third base positions still up for grabs. While Marcelo Mayer is expected to be the starting second baseman, there is a possibility that Isiah Kiner-Falefa or prospect Mikey Romero could emerge as the surprise starter at the position on Opening Day.

Why it matters

The Red Sox are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 season, and the composition of their infield will be a key factor in their success. Mayer is considered the favorite for the second base job, but the team is also high on Romero, their 2021 first-round draft pick, who could push for playing time.

The details

Mayer has been working extensively with shortstop Trevor Story in infield drills this spring, suggesting he is the frontrunner for the second base job. However, Kiner-Falefa and Romero have also been mentioned as potential options, with Kiner-Falefa potentially serving as a temporary starter until Romy Gonzalez returns from a shoulder injury. Romero, the Red Sox's No. 6 prospect, is considered a dark horse candidate to make the Opening Day roster after a solid 2025 season in the minors.

  • Mayer has not played in a Spring Training game yet, but is expected to make his debut on Friday.
  • Mayer dealt with injuries in his first three minor league seasons, but was fully healthy in 2025.

The players

Marcelo Mayer

The Red Sox's top prospect, who is expected to be the starting second baseman on Opening Day.

Isiah Kiner-Falefa

A veteran infielder who could temporarily start at second base until Romy Gonzalez returns from injury.

Mikey Romero

The Red Sox's 2021 first-round draft pick, who is considered a dark horse candidate to make the Opening Day roster.

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What they’re saying

“We've been trying to put him at second base as much as possible, that's for my benefit. Obviously we're going to move him around during the season. But the guy can hit. He's a good hitter. He did an amazing job physically.”

— Alex Cora, Red Sox Manager (MLB.com)

“One hint of the way it will likely go is that Mayer has been working with Story in nearly all infield drills this spring, though there have been a couple of occasions he didn't. Durbin played in 10 games at second base for the Brewers last season, but started only three. Mayer made 28 starts at third and seven at second in his rookie season. If Mayer doesn't earn his spot on the team, Isiah Kiner-Falefa could temporarily hold down second base – at least until Romy Gonzalez (left shoulder) is healthy. A dark horse candidate to keep in mind is Mikey Romero (club's No. 6 prospect).”

— Ian Browne, MLB.com Reporter (MLB.com)

What’s next

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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.