Carlos Narvaez Expected to Remain Boston Red Sox's Starting Catcher

Knee injury hampered Narvaez's offense in 2025, but he'll be back as team's top backstop in 2026.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Carlos Narvaez, the Boston Red Sox's starting catcher, is expected to retain that role in 2026 despite dealing with a knee injury throughout the 2025 season. Manager Alex Cora noted that Narvaez's knee was a problem all of last year, which helped explain his offensive downturn in the second half. After undergoing a left knee meniscectomy in October, Narvaez will reclaim his position as the Red Sox's primary catcher, ahead of backup Connor Wong.

Why it matters

Narvaez's health and production are crucial for the Red Sox, as he has been their starting catcher for the past few seasons. His defensive skills behind the plate are valuable, and the team will hope he can bounce back offensively after the knee issues that plagued him in 2025.

The details

According to the report, Narvaez was able to avoid the injured list last season despite the knee injury, but it impacted his offensive performance. After a strong first half, his numbers dipped in the second half, hitting just .187 with a .233 on-base percentage and .387 slugging percentage. The Red Sox are counting on Narvaez to return to form in 2026 as their starting catcher after the offseason knee surgery.

  • Narvaez underwent a left knee meniscectomy in October 2025.
  • Narvaez dealt with the knee injury throughout the entire 2025 season.

The players

Carlos Narvaez

The Boston Red Sox's starting catcher, who dealt with a knee injury in 2025 but is expected to retain his role as the team's primary backstop in 2026.

Alex Cora

The manager of the Boston Red Sox, who noted that Narvaez's knee was a problem throughout the 2025 season.

Connor Wong

The backup catcher for the Boston Red Sox, who will be behind Narvaez on the depth chart in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Narvaez's knee was a problem throughout the entire 2025 season.”

— Alex Cora, Manager, Boston Red Sox (MassLive.com)

The takeaway

The Red Sox are counting on Narvaez to bounce back in 2026 after his knee issues last season, as he remains their starting catcher and a key part of their roster. His defensive skills are valuable, and the team will hope he can regain his offensive form to provide production behind the plate.