Imagine a baseball team’s first base position being covered by players who rarely, if ever, step into that role—sounds risky, right? But that’s exactly what Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora is planning for the 2026 season. On the very day Isiah Kiner-Falefa was spotted taking practice reps at first base, Cora revealed to the media that Kiner-Falefa, alongside Nick Sogard and Connor Wong, will serve as the team’s ‘backup options’ at first base, supporting primary player Willson Contreras. And this is the part most people miss: these players aren’t your typical first basemen—they’re utility players stepping into uncharted territory.
Here’s where it gets controversial: Kiner-Falefa, a versatile infielder known for his adaptability, has zero major league games at first base throughout his career. His only experience? A handful of minor league innings back in 2016. Meanwhile, Sogard has logged some major league time at first during his stints with Boston, and Wong, primarily a catcher, has made sporadic appearances there, including a standout start in August 2024 against the Texas Rangers.
Wong, in particular, has flashed impressive defensive skills at first base, pulling off diving stops and leaping grabs on liners—moves that showcase his athleticism despite limited experience. However, his total innings at the position remain modest, with just 15 appearances and six starts. Together, this trio offers more of an emergency safety net than a reliable source of production. Sogard and Wong bring the only real major league experience to the table, while Kiner-Falefa’s recent practice reps hint at potential flexibility for the upcoming season.
But here’s the bold question: Is relying on such untested players at a critical position a smart move, or a recipe for disaster? Cora seems confident in their ability to adapt, but only time will tell if this strategy pays off. What do you think? Is this a clever use of roster depth, or a risky gamble? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
About the Author: Colin Keane is a contributing journalist for NESN, covering the NBA, MLB, NFL, and college basketball. A graduate of Villanova University with a degree in English and a minor in Business, his work has appeared in outlets like OnSI and FanSided.
Featured image via D. Ross Cameron/USA TODAY Sports
