CHALLENGING TIMES: As impressive as Roman Anthony's rookie season was, there’s reason to believe it was merely an appetizer — with the introduction of the Automatic Ball-Strike (ABS) challenge system in 2026 offering the potential for an eruption. Alex Speier explains why.
UPON FURTHER REVIEW: One year after the Sox signed Alex Bregman and upset Rafael Devers — triggering a series of events that concluded with both leaving the organization — Sam Kennedy said he wishes the organization had taken a different approach to part of it. Tim Healey has more from the team president and CEO.
CATCHING HEAT: Aroldis Chapman has thrown eight of the nine fastest pitches recorded in the Statcast Era (2015-present). Dan Shaughnessy had a short conversation with the 37-year-old Sox lefty in the JetBlue clubhouse Sunday afternoon.
ALL IN THE FAMILY: The Red Sox’ annual start-of-spring-training organizational meeting came with an unusual element Sunday morning: tears. Tim Healey has more in the Red Sox notebook.
BIG IMPRESSION: At 6-foot-6 and 275 pounds, Johan Oviedo is a presence. His height and athletic ability allows him to extend an average of 7 feet, 4 inches down the slope of the mound before releasing the ball. Peter Abraham has more on the Red Sox righthander.
TRYING TO FIT IN: Between an overcrowded outfield and others who figure into the DH picture, Masataka Yoshida doesn’t have an obvious role on the 2026 squad. Tim Healey caught up with Yoshida, who is in his fourth spring training with the Sox.
BROTHERLY LOVE: For first baseman Willson Contreras, the long-awaited honor of playing for his home country, Venezuela, in the World Baseball Classic comes with an additional thrill: Suiting up alongside his brother, William Contreras, the Brewers’ catcher. Tim Healey has more.
NEW DEAL: Last week ESPN and MLB.TV announced the parameters of a new partnership that makes the network its streaming home. Chad Finn put together a brief synopsis on the key details and what you need to do (and pay) to watch thousands of out-of-market games this season.
MAKING A MOVE: When Trevor Story arrived at Red Sox spring training and found his new locker, it meant something. He possesses the prime corner spot that a year ago belonged to Devers. Tim Healey explains the significance.
OPEN MINDED: Kristian Campbell is well-traveled on the field. In two-plus seasons in the Red Sox organization, he’s spent time at all four infield and all three outfield spots. Does he know where he’s best suited to play? Alex Speier caught up with the 23-year-old last week.
HOME AGAIN: After finishing 77-85 last season while playing home games at Steinbrenner Field, the Rays are happy to be going back to their humble home. Peter Abraham looks at the organization's return to Tropicana Field.
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