Overview
- Manager Alex Cora announced Saturday that Roman Anthony will bat first for Boston in 2026.
- Anthony is slated to lead off in the Grapefruit League opener against the Twins as spring games begin.
- MLB.com reported he is all but certain to open the season atop the order on March 26 in Cincinnati.
- After moving to the top spot late last year, Anthony posted a .336/.439/.564 line with six homers in 132 plate appearances.
- Cora referenced leadoff examples such as Mookie Betts, George Springer and Kyle Schwarber to underscore the value of power at the top, even as Anthony returns from a Sept. 2 oblique injury that ended his 2025 season.