ORLANDO — In his first two major league seasons, Wilyer Abreu has been a platoon player. The Red Sox have made sure to limit his exposure to left-handed pitchers in an effort to maximize their lineup every day.

Assuming Abreu isn’t traded before Opening Day, expect that to change in 2026. The Red Sox want to have a two-time Gold Glove right fielder in their lineup every day , and to do so, plan to challenge Abreu to face lefties in the batter’s box.

“With Willy and some of the lefties, we have to see if they can do it,” said manager Alex Cora. “It’s about that time, especially with Abreu. If he can hit lefties and hit for power and play defense the way he’s done the last few years, he can be the guy.”

Since debuting late in the 2023 season, Abreu has gotten just 15 starts against le

See Full Page