"Braiden Ward, who has stolen 16 bases in 15 Grapefruit League games. Not only do those 16 steals lead all of baseball this spring, but they are 10 more than the players in second. But while Ward's been fun to watch, his profile just doesn't really fit the team's needs right now, which is why he's looking like someone who could be a big fan-favorite in Worcester this year."
"Alex Cora has had some nice things to say about Matt Thaiss, and it's recently been reported that Thaiss has an upward mobility clause in his contract that kicks in before Opening Day. That means that, if the Red Sox do not put him on the MLB roster and another team does want him for their big league team, he'll be free to leave."
"The battle for the backup catcher spot will obviously have a significant impact on the pitching staff. For now, though, the Sox' pitchers are mostly focused on their own development. Case in point: Sonny Gray, who is focused on repeating his delivery and getting the right spin on the ball."
Spring Training has featured several notable storylines for the Red Sox. Braiden Ward has emerged as a standout performer, leading all of baseball with 16 stolen bases in 15 Grapefruit League games, 10 more than the second-place player. However, his skill set may not align with current team priorities. An unexpected battle for the backup catcher position has developed, with Alex Cora expressing interest in Matt Thaiss, who has an upward mobility clause in his contract. Connor Wong remains an alternative option with a remaining option to be sent to Worcester. Pitchers like Sonny Gray focus on mechanical refinement and spin optimization, while Greg Weissert has impressed with his performance. The fifth rotation spot remains unsettled, with Patrick Sandoval being slowed down during a deload week.
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