Rafaela Makes Career-First Start at Second Base

Ceddanne Rafaela is starting at second base and batting third for the Boston Red Sox for the first time in his career as the team faces the Chicago Cubs, seeking to avoid a sweep before their next series in Philadelphia. Manager Alex Cora plans to give Rafaela one or two starts per week at second base to increase lineup flexibility and add more left-handed bats, addressing the team's outfield congestion. Rafaela and Cubs All-Star Pete Crow-Armstrong are both recognized for their elite defense and developing offensive skills, with Red Sox executive Craig Breslow noting their similar development paths. Mutual admiration between Rafaela and Crow-Armstrong underscores their comparable playing styles. The Red Sox's recent surge, particularly after trading Rafael Devers, has led to rare praise from Yankees legend Alex Rodriguez, who said their resurgence is 'great for baseball.' This optimism reflects the significant impact of lineup adjustments and Rafaela's breakout on Boston's season.