Red Sox Prospect Bulks Up, Eyes 'Plus, Plus' Defense

Mikey Romero added 12 pounds in the offseason to reach 210-215 pounds, with a focus on improving his athleticism and defense.

Feb. 25, 2026 at 11:05am

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Red Sox prospect Mikey Romero, the team's 2022 first-round draft pick, put on 12 pounds in the offseason while following a 4,000-calorie-per-day diet focused on clean eating and building muscle mass. The 22-year-old infielder, ranked as Boston's No. 12 prospect by SoxProspects.com, is now aiming to become a 'plus, plus defender' after working extensively with the team's infield coordinator.

Why it matters

Romero's physical transformation and defensive development are crucial for the Red Sox, who are looking to the young prospect to potentially contribute at the major league level in the near future. His ability to hit the ball 'super hard' while also improving his athleticism and range could make him a well-rounded player capable of making an impact on both sides of the ball.

The details

Romero, who finished the 2025 season at 203 pounds, set a goal of reaching 210-215 pounds this offseason. He accomplished this by focusing on a diet high in protein, including steak, chicken, and daily omelettes, as well as plenty of protein shakes. In addition to bulking up, Romero also worked on improving his speed and lateral quickness through plyometric exercises, with the aim of becoming a 'plus, plus defender' at multiple infield positions.

  • Romero finished the 2025 season at 203 pounds.
  • Romero set a goal of reaching 210-215 pounds this offseason.
  • Romero has been working extensively with Red Sox infield coordinator José Flores during spring training.

The players

Mikey Romero

A 22-year-old infielder and the Red Sox's 2022 first-round draft pick, who is ranked as the team's No. 12 prospect by SoxProspects.com.

Alex Cora

The manager of the Boston Red Sox, who has praised Romero's physical transformation and defensive development.

José Flores

The Red Sox's infield coordinator, who has been working closely with Romero on his defensive skills.

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What they’re saying

“I try and do it in a clean way where my body fat's lower and my muscle mass is higher. I didn't just want to go and eat Cane's or eat Chipotle or In-N-Out.”

— Mikey Romero, Red Sox Prospect

“My goal is to be a plus, plus defender.”

— Mikey Romero, Red Sox Prospect

“The more I see him at second base, the better. It's for my benefit.”

— Alex Cora, Red Sox Manager

What’s next

Romero is expected to see significant playing time at second base during the Red Sox's spring training games, as manager Alex Cora wants to evaluate the prospect's defensive abilities at that position.

The takeaway

Romero's physical transformation and defensive development could make him a well-rounded player capable of contributing at the major league level in the near future. His ability to hit the ball 'super hard' combined with his improved athleticism and range could make him a valuable asset for the Red Sox as they look to build a competitive team for the 2026 season and beyond.