Red Sox Shortstop Marcelo Mayer 'All-In' On Transition to Second Base

The Boston Red Sox are trying out a variety of position changes amid the season-ending injury to Triston Casas. With Rafael Devers refusing to try out at first base, Alex Cora and the Red Sox have begun looking elsewhere.

Top Red Sox prospect Marcelo Mayer is primarily a shortstop, but amid the Red Sox’s attempt to try Kristian Campbell out at first base, Mayer is trying out at second base in the Minor Leagues.

Amid that transition, Mayer sent a strong message to the Red Sox. Tommy Cassell of Worcester T&G Sports had Mayers comment.

Mayer said, “I like the new challenge… I’ll play anywhere in the big leagues. Whatever it takes to help the team win, whatever it takes to get me up there, I’m more than willing.”

Boston Red Sox third baseman Marcelo Mayer (39) watches his fly ball during the first inning against the Detroit Tigers at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium.Mike Watters-Imagn Images

The flexibility that Mayer working out at second base would provide would be exactly what the Red Sox need. If Campbell can solidify himself at first, Mayer could slide right into second base for the Red Sox.

In Triple-A, Mayer has a batting average of .264 with eight home runs, 40 RBI, two stolen bases, and a .794 OPS in 159 at-bats. His solid start to the year in the Minor Leagues mirrors his overall Minor League production.

Across his 1,214 at-bats in the Minors, Mayer has a .273 batting average with 45 home runs, 202 RBI, 48 stolen bases, and an OPS of .824.

The 22-year-old is the 8th-ranked prospect in baseball, and is the Red Sox second-ranked prospect.

His role in the organization is massive, and if he can move to second base and provide more flexibility, his chances of getting the call-up to the Majors significantly increase.

Amid all of the drama and re-shuffling the Red Sox are undertaking, Mayer’s stance on changing positions is a welcome one.

Red Sox Shortstop Marcelo Mayer ‘All-In’ On Transition to Second Base

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