Although the Boston Red Sox have a strong and balanced starting lineup heading into Spring Training, and one in which they can rely on to position them to go from last-to-first in the AL East next season, the importance of their bench this year cannot be overstated.
The Red Sox opening day starters project to be Blake Swihart at catcher; Hanley Ramirez, Dustin Pedroia, Xander Bogaerts and Pablo Sandoval in the infield; Mookie Betts, Jackie Bradley, Jr.