In the new arrangement, Wilson Contreras is back in the lineup at first base and will bat second, with Anthony Roman as the designated hitter in the leadoff spot. The projected order from Boston’s latest update is: Anthony DH, Contreras 1B, Abreu RF, Story SS, Duran LF, Rafaela CF, Mayer 2B, Durbin 3B, Wong C.
Contreras has spent his first 17 games of the season hitting third or fourth, but the team is placing him behind leadoff hitter Roman Anthony to provide protection against the Tigers and starter Casey Mize in the opener of the series.
Contreras had been sidelined by back tightness, was removed in Tuesday’s game, and sat out the following day. He is currently batting .298, ranking among the team’s top hitters.
Boston fans are also noting Contreras’s defensive value, with three outs above average and two defensive runs saved, which makes his return particularly welcome at first base.
This lineup shift was highlighted in the lead-up to the Tigers series, with Cotillo noting the move to place Contreras in the No. 2 spot and adjust surrounding roles as the Red Sox aim to regain momentum.
