The Red Sox’s Lineup Puzzle: Cora Locks in Cleanup Hitter, But Leadoff Spot Remains a Mystery
As the 2026 MLB season looms, Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora is already making headlines with his strategic decisions—or lack thereof. In a surprising turn of events, Cora has confidently named Willson Contreras as the team’s cleanup hitter, but the leadoff spot remains shrouded in uncertainty. And this is the part most people miss: the leadoff position, often considered the heartbeat of a lineup, is still up in the air, leaving fans and analysts alike scratching their heads.
During the Red Sox’s Fenway Fest, Cora didn’t mince words about Contreras’s role. “Willson will probably hit fourth. I know that one,” he stated matter-of-factly. Acquired in a trade with the St. Louis Cardinals last month, Contreras is poised to be the everyday first baseman and a cornerstone of the lineup. Cora praised his ability to hit the ball hard and drive it to right-center, noting that his increased pull rate last season could be a game-changer for the team. But here’s where it gets controversial: while Contreras’s role seems set in stone, the leadoff spot is a different story entirely.
Cora admitted he’s still undecided between Roman Anthony and Jarren Duran, both of whom have experience in the leadoff role. Anthony, who made his debut last season, impressed with his on-base skills, while Duran filled in admirably during Anthony’s absence in September. “I’m not there yet, to be honest,” Cora confessed. “Usually by this point, I have a pretty good idea, but this time, I have no clue.” This indecision is rare for Cora, who typically has a clear vision for his lineup by now.
What’s complicating matters? Roster battles and the need for balance. Cora emphasized the importance of alternating lefty and righty hitters, a strategy that worked well last season despite the team’s left-handed dominance. “We just need to create balance,” he explained, hinting at potential trades, free agency moves, or internal development to achieve this. Bold question for the audience: With the leadoff spot still open, who do you think should take the reins—Anthony, Duran, or someone else entirely? Let’s hear your take in the comments!
For now, Cora’s focus remains on building a cohesive lineup that can compete in the AL. “We’ll see where we’re at when we get to Fort Myers,” he said, referencing the team’s spring training home. As the Red Sox continue to fine-tune their roster, one thing is clear: the 2026 season promises to be full of surprises, starting with the lineup’s most crucial spot.
