Red Sox Option Vaughn Grissom to Triple-A, Future Uncertain

FORT MYERS, Fla. — The Boston Red Sox have optioned infielder Vaughn Grissom to Triple-A Worcester as the team finalizes its roster ahead of the 2025 season. Grissom, who reported to spring training at 221 pounds after being asked to reach 220, has faced stiff competition for the second base job this spring.

Manager Alex Cora addressed the move in a press conference Thursday, acknowledging the difficulty of demotion. “When you get demoted, or let go on your job, it’s not easy,” Cora said. “He did everything possible in the offseason. He killed it. He turned the double play well, but there are a few things that we talked about that I think he can do better defensively.”

Grissom, 24, was originally acquired from the Atlanta Braves with high expectations to stabilize the second base position for the Red Sox. Since joining Boston, the landscape has shifted with the rise of Kristian Campbell and injured prospects like Marcelo Mayer, all vying for the same spot. Cora referred to 2024 as “a mulligan” for Grissom, citing injuries that hindered his performance.

In spring training, Grissom struggled at the plate, batting .176 in 34 at-bats, which ultimately influenced the decision to send him to Worcester. “He just needs to go down there and kill it,” Cora said, encouraging Grissom to focus on proving himself as he heads to Triple-A.

The Red Sox are now considering a platoon scenario at second base, which could involve David Hamilton and Romy Gonzalez, further pushing Grissom’s opportunities further away. Cora emphasized the importance of Grissom playing regularly to develop his skills, saying, “He needs to play, too. He has to go down there and play.”

Additionally, the Red Sox have their eyes on other prospects, including Campbell and Mayer, who may start the season in Worcester. Meyer’s ability to also play second base presents more competition for Grissom.

Amid injuries to pitchers Lucas Giolito and Brayan Bello, Sean Newcomb started against the Minnesota Twins, showcasing his potential for a rotation spot with a solid 4⅔ innings pitched, allowing one unearned run while striking out three. “Coming into today, I had a little bit of everything working,” Newcomb said after the game. He will make another exhibition appearance next week.

On another note, Luis Guerrero was also cut from the roster after showing inconsistency in his pitching. Cora noted that Guerrero needs to sharpen his command, stating, “He was erratic. He didn’t throw too many strikes, and he walked a lot of guys.”

As spring training comes to a close, the Red Sox are still determining their best path forward at second base and beyond, with Grissom now needing to make his case in Worcester to secure his spot in the major leagues.