Boston Red Sox breakout prospect Kristian Campbell has been sidelined for a week with a late injury and hasn’t played for Triple-A Worcester. Despite Worcester’s strong playoff run, the 22-year-old infielder might not play again this season.
While the Red Sox haven’t officially ruled out Campbell, they are taking a cautious approach, especially given his impressive performance in his first full professional season. With 20 home runs and 77 RBIs this year at three different levels, Campbell has established himself as one of the farm system’s top five prospects.
Red Sox farm director Brian Abraham told Alex Speier of The Boston Globe that “the priority for him right now is to enter the offseason fully healthy so he can train effectively this winter.” “We need to be smart and focus on the long-term picture rather than immediate concerns.”
Abraham emphasized that the team would rely on input from their staff and Campbell to gauge his condition, but he wouldn’t be surprised if they ultimately decided to prioritize Campbell’s health heading into the offseason.
Following an incredible season, Campbell has an important offseason to come. Last year, he played college baseball at Georgia Tech before being drafted by the Red Sox in the fourth round of the 2023 draft. There’s potential for him to become Boston’s everyday second baseman by 2025.
Vaughn Grissom, acquired in the trade for Chris Sale last offseason, is also in contention for the position, although he had a tough season with just 23 major league appearances.
For Campbell to secure the spot over Grissom, starting the offseason in good health would be ideal.
