Isiah Kiner-Falefa provides versatility across three infield positions and reliable defensive play. He generates contact, strikes out infrequently, and offers a right-handed bat that addresses roster balance. He may be a stronger defensive option than several existing infielders aside from Marcelo Mayer. A $6 million contract is notable for what appears to be only a marginal upgrade over current in-house backups. That salary level raises the possibility of a larger role, and injury risks on the left side of the Red Sox infield increase the likelihood he will see significant playing time.
"Isiah Kiner-Falefa is a perfectly good backup to have on your team. He plays three positions in the infield and plays them all well - possibly better than anyone else currently on the Red Sox if you're not yet convinced of Marcelo Mayer's glove (though I am). He makes contact and doesn't strike out much. He's right-handed, which is important for this Red Sox team. He's a perfectly cromulent backup, is what I'm saying."
"But where the worry creeps in is in the possibility that he doesn't end up being a backup on the Red Sox. Six million dollars is in no way a lot of money for the Boston Red Sox, a team that finds all kinds of ways (both benign and not so benign) to print money - but it's a curious amount to give to a backup who is only a marginal upgrade over the backups that are currently in-house."
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