Red Sox Catcher Carlos Narváez Embraces 'Forever' Role

Narváez named starting catcher, says he 'would love to be a Red Sox forever'

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The Boston Red Sox have named Carlos Narváez as their starting catcher for the 2026 season. Narváez, who stepped up last year when Connor Wong was injured, impressed the team with his defensive skills, game-planning, and offensive production despite playing through a knee injury. Narváez says he would love to retire as a member of the Red Sox and hopes the team will consider a contract extension, though his current focus is on helping the team win a World Series this year.

Why it matters

Narváez's emergence as the Red Sox's starting catcher is a significant development for the team, as they look to build on their success from last season. His defensive abilities, leadership, and offensive contributions make him a key part of the Red Sox's plans going forward. The team's willingness to commit to Narváez long-term could also signal a shift in their approach to player development and roster construction.

The details

Narváez took over as the Red Sox's primary catcher last season when Connor Wong suffered a fractured pinky early in the year. Despite playing through a knee injury that would eventually require surgery, Narváez excelled, leading the majors in assists and runners caught stealing, and finishing sixth in American League Rookie of the Year voting. Coaches, including longtime Red Sox catcher and captain Jason Varitek, praised Narváez's preparedness and game-planning abilities. Narváez exceeded expectations with both his bat and his perseverance, and has now been named the Red Sox's starting catcher for the 2026 season.

  • In 2025, Narváez played 118 games, including 112 as catcher, after Wong was injured.
  • Narváez delayed knee surgery until the offseason to help the Red Sox make a playoff push in 2025.

The players

Carlos Narváez

A 26-year-old catcher who was named the Red Sox's starting catcher for the 2026 season after a breakout 2025 campaign.

Connor Wong

The Red Sox's primary catcher in 2023 and 2024, who suffered a fractured pinky early in the 2025 season, allowing Narváez to take over the starting role.

Alex Cora

The manager of the Boston Red Sox, who praised Narváez's performance and named him the team's starting catcher for 2026.

Jason Varitek

A longtime Red Sox catcher and captain, who praised Narváez's preparedness and game-planning abilities.

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What they’re saying

“I think Carlos earned the right to be the starter.”

— Alex Cora, Red Sox Manager (Boston Herald)

“He exudes baseball. His demeanor, and the way he goes about his business. And he's prepared. He's a joy to be around. He's a joy.”

— Jason Varitek, Longtime Red Sox Catcher and Captain (Boston Herald)

“The only thing I may say is I would love to be a Red Sox forever. I would like to retire with this team.”

— Carlos Narváez (Boston Herald)

What’s next

The Red Sox and Narváez have not yet discussed a contract extension, but the team may look to lock up the young catcher long-term before he becomes eligible for free agency in 2031.

The takeaway

Narváez's emergence as the Red Sox's starting catcher is a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and dedication to the team. His desire to remain in Boston for the long-term aligns with the team's efforts to build a sustainable contender, and his leadership and all-around skills make him a valuable asset for the Red Sox going forward.