The Boston Red Sox are already making moves to bolster their roster for the 2026 season, while also focusing on the development of current players [9]. The team signed veteran catcher Jason Delay to a minor league deal, adding depth behind the plate [6, 9, 11]. Meanwhile, the Red Sox are prioritizing rest and strength training for Kristian Campbell, aiming to get the young player back on track after an up-and-down season [7, 8]. In other news, Red Sox closer Aroldis Chapman didn't mince words about his former team, the New York Yankees, stating he would rather retire than play for them again [1].
Delay Bolsters Catching Depth
The Red Sox have signed catcher Jason Delay to a minor league contract, which includes an invitation to Spring Training [11]. Delay, a former fourth-round pick by the Pirates, has spent his entire professional career with the organization [11]. This move provides Boston with additional catching depth, a position where they utilized multiple players in Triple-A Worcester during the 2025 season, including Blake Sabol, Seby Zavala, and Yasmani Grandal [10]. The Red Sox seem to value experienced catchers on minor league deals [10]. The signing of Delay marks the first move of the offseason for the Red Sox as they look to build depth for the upcoming season [9].
Campbell's Development a Priority
After a season of highs and lows, the Red Sox are focusing on helping Kristian Campbell improve [8]. The team's plan involves prioritizing rest and strength training to help Campbell reach his potential [7, 8]. Campbell's ability to hit the ball hard was a key factor in his promotion to the major league team [7]. Despite his struggles, the Red Sox remain committed to Campbell's development, drawing encouragement from the progress of other young players who initially faced challenges [7].
Chapman's Candid Comments
Aroldis Chapman, the Red Sox closer, recently made headlines with his critical comments about the New York Yankees, his former team [1]. In a recent podcast interview, Chapman stated emphatically that he would rather retire than play for the Yankees again [1].
TL;DR
- The Red Sox signed veteran catcher Jason Delay to a minor league deal, adding depth at the catching position [6, 11].
- The team is prioritizing rest and strength training for Kristian Campbell to help him improve after a roller-coaster season [7, 8].
- Aroldis Chapman, the Red Sox closer, publicly stated he would rather retire than play for the New York Yankees again [1].
- Boston is already preparing for the 2026 season by making strategic moves to strengthen their roster [9].