Overview
- The 23-year-old former No. 4 pick made his first Opening Day roster after Cora confirmed he will start at second base.
- Mayer said he embraced being told to earn the job, calling the opportunity meaningful and the outcome the result of daily work.
- He debuted in 2025 and hit .228 with four home runs and 10 RBIs in 44 games before a season-ending wrist injury that led to surgery.
- A natural shortstop, Mayer shifts to second to form a double-play pairing with veteran shortstop Trevor Story.
- Boston optioned 2025 Opening Day second baseman Kristian Campbell to the minors, while Ceddanne Rafaela is expected to back up at second with Romy Gonzalez on the 60-day injured list.