Red Sox Manager Cora Weighs In on Prospect Mayer's Roster Spot

Cora says young infielder Marcelo Mayer must improve offensively to earn spot on Opening Day roster.

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

As the Boston Red Sox begin Spring Training, manager Alex Cora addressed the team's infield situation, including the status of top prospect Marcelo Mayer. Cora acknowledged that Mayer, the team's 2021 first-round draft pick, will need to demonstrate offensive improvement from his MLB debut last year in order to earn a spot on the Opening Day roster.

Why it matters

The Red Sox are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 season, and the development of young talent like Mayer will be crucial to their success. Cora's comments indicate the team is taking a measured approach with Mayer, wanting to see continued growth before handing him an everyday role.

The details

While veteran Willson Contreras has the first base job locked down, the rest of the Red Sox infield remains unsettled. Mayer, the team's top prospect, made his MLB debut late last season but struggled offensively. Cora said Mayer will need to show improvement at the plate this spring in order to earn a spot on the Opening Day roster.

  • The Boston Red Sox are currently in Spring Training, preparing for the 2026 MLB season.
  • Marcelo Mayer made his MLB debut for the Red Sox late in the 2025 season.

The players

Alex Cora

The manager of the Boston Red Sox.

Marcelo Mayer

A top prospect in the Boston Red Sox farm system who made his MLB debut in 2025.

Willson Contreras

A veteran first baseman who has the starting first base job locked down for the Red Sox.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Asked what he needs to show, Cora said he needs to be better offensively than he was in the majors last year.”

— Alex Cora, Red Sox Manager

The takeaway

The Red Sox are taking a patient approach with top prospect Marcelo Mayer, wanting to see continued offensive improvement before handing him an everyday role. Cora's comments indicate the team is focused on developing Mayer the right way, rather than rushing him to the majors.