During the Boston Red Sox’s 2000s–2010s heyday, a ball grounded to the infield was never a concern. With Xander Bogaerts, Dustin Pedroia, and Kevin Youkilis anchoring the dirt, Boston built its success on defense and consistency.
In recent years, that stability has vanished. The 2025 Red Sox won 89 games and reached the playoffs, yet their infield remained a revolving door. Names like Abraham Toro, David Hamilton, and Nick Sogard had flashes but aren’t long-term answers.
The Sox led the league with 116 errors, six more than the pitiful 43-119 Rockies, but still ranked 12th in Defensive Runs Saved, thanks mostly to Ceddanne Rafaela.