Alex Cora, the Red Sox manager, is providing intriguing hints about the team's Opening Day lineup, which is set to be announced soon. The question on everyone's mind is whether Roman Anthony will be the leadoff hitter. Here's a breakdown of the potential lineup, with some interesting insights.
Cora has been tight-lipped about the exact order, but he has revealed some key details. Firstly, he confirmed that Willson Contreras will hit fourth, a position he has been in previously. Secondly, he praised Trevor Story's performance in 2025, suggesting he deserves a spot near the top of the lineup. Additionally, Cora expressed interest in Caleb Durbin's potential as a bat-to-ball hitter, considering him for the sixth spot.
When it comes to Anthony, Cora acknowledges his ability to impact games from the first pitch. Last year, Anthony thrived as the leadoff hitter against right-handed pitchers, posting an impressive .336 average and 1.003 OPS in 27 starts. This performance has led Cora to consider Anthony as a strong candidate for the leadoff spot, especially against right-handed pitchers. However, he also mentioned that Jarren Duran could be a potential leadoff hitter against left-handed pitchers, with both players competing for the left field/designated hitter role.
The lineup's structure is still evolving, with Cora emphasizing the importance of balance and adaptability. He mentioned that Durbin can provide length in the lineup and is a good baserunner, suggesting he might hit sixth. The middle of the order will likely feature a mix of players, including Anthony, Duran, and others with uncertain roles. The bottom of the lineup will consist of infielders, catchers, and center fielder Ceddanne Rafaela, with utility man Isiah Kiner-Falefa and newcomer Andruw Monasterio also in the mix.
Cora's approach to lineup construction is methodical, with a focus on finding the right balance and maximizing the team's strengths. He plans to make a final decision after getting more familiar with Durbin's game, and he highlights the team's flexibility in using various lineup combinations, as evidenced by the 134 different combinations used in 2025.
The Red Sox's Opening Day lineup is a work in progress, and Cora's thoughtful approach adds an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming season.
