Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora made headlines just minutes ago with his latest comments on the team’s 2026 roster construction, specifically detailing the ideal positions and batting order spots for rising star Roman Anthony, speedster Jarren Duran, and veteran shortstop Trevor Story. In an appearance on MLB Network, Cora laid out a clear vision for the top of the lineup, emphasizing how these three players align to give the Red Sox the most advantageous setup heading into the new season.

Cora confirmed that Roman Anthony, the 21-year-old outfielder who burst onto the scene in 2025, will anchor the leadoff spot. Anthony, a former top prospect drafted by Boston in 2022, made his MLB debut last June and quickly established himself as a dynamic force. In 71 games as a rookie, he posted a .292 batting average, eight home runs, and an .859 OPS before an oblique injury sidelined him for the final stretch. Notably, he thrived in the leadoff role during much of his time in the majors, slashing .336/.439/.564 with six homers across 31 games batting first.

Cora praised Anthony’s plate discipline and ability to set the tone early. “Roman will lead off,” Cora said. “The kid, he’s a good hitter, he knows the strike zone. With one swing, it’s 1-0 Red Sox. From pitch one, you have to execute if you’re facing us.” This decision reflects the organization’s confidence in Anthony’s readiness for a full season in the spotlight, especially after he finished third in American League Rookie of the Year voting.

Following Anthony in the batting order is Trevor Story, slotted into the No. 2 position. The veteran shortstop, who has battled injuries in recent years, enjoyed a strong bounce-back campaign in 2025, playing in 157 games and driving in a team-leading 96 runs while hitting .263 with 25 homers. Cora highlighted Story’s performance over the final four months of last season, noting that he was among the league’s top hitters during that stretch.

Placing Story second allows him to capitalize on his on-base skills and power in a prime run-producing spot, while his defensive prowess at shortstop remains a cornerstone of the infield. Story has expressed enthusiasm for building on his healthy offseason and pushing forward without any reduced workload, signaling his intent to remain a durable everyday player at age 33.

Jarren Duran rounds out the top three, hitting in the No. 3 hole. The dynamic outfielder has evolved into one of the American League’s most exciting young talents, known for his elite speed, gap power, and ability to impact games in multiple ways. Duran’s placement third provides a left-handed bat with pop and on-base potential behind Anthony and Story, creating a formidable 1-2-3 punch that blends youth, veteran savvy, and versatility.

Projections often have Duran serving as the designated hitter or in left field, depending on the team’s outfield alignment, but his offensive contributions make him a key piece regardless of defensive assignment.

These batting order revelations come at a pivotal time for the Red Sox, who finished 2025 with an 89-73 record and are aiming to contend in a competitive AL East. The team has undergone roster changes, including the addition of catcher Willson Contreras, who is expected to clean up in the fourth spot, and a continued emphasis on in-house talent amid departures like Rafael Devers. Cora’s comments underscore a strategy focused on high-contact leadoff hitting from Anthony, disciplined production from Story in the two-hole, and explosive potential from Duran in the three spot.

This top-heavy approach is designed to generate early rallies, force opposing pitchers to execute from the outset, and leverage the blend of left- and right-handed bats.

Anthony’s rapid rise has been one of the most encouraging developments in Boston. At just 21, he brings exceptional bat-to-ball skills, power potential, and a mature approach that belies his age. His ability to draw walks and drive the ball makes him an ideal table-setter, and a full healthy season could see him emerge as a perennial All-Star candidate. Story’s resurgence adds stability and leadership; his late-2025 surge proved he can still deliver MVP-caliber stretches when healthy.

Duran’s inclusion in the top three ensures the lineup doesn’t lose momentum, as his speed threatens stolen bases and extra bases, while his improved pull-side power adds another dimension.

Overall, Cora’s announcement signals optimism for 2026. The Red Sox enter the season with a more complete roster than in recent years, blending emerging stars like Anthony with proven performers like Story and Duran. This top-of-the-order configuration positions Boston to score early and often, putting pressure on opponents from the first inning. As spring training progresses and Opening Day against the Cincinnati Reds approaches on March 26, fans in Fenway Park and beyond will watch closely to see how this trio performs in their newly defined roles.

With Anthony setting the table, Story driving production, and Duran providing fireworks, the Red Sox appear poised for an exciting and potentially competitive campaign.