Red Sox Tabbed to Land 21-Year-Old Second Baseman After ‘Massive’ Season

The Boston Red Sox have long been synonymous with great second basemen, with names like Dustin Pedroia forever etched in their history. Pedroia, who captured the American League Rookie of the Year award in 2007, followed it up with an MVP in 2008, and was instrumental in the team’s three World Series titles. His scrappy play, defensive wizardry, and leadership left an indelible mark on the franchise. But after a series of knee injuries cut short his illustrious career in 2021, the Red Sox have been left without a permanent fixture at second base.

Now, as the 2026 season approaches, Boston may be on the verge of solving that long-standing puzzle. According to a new mock draft compiled by Joel Reuter of Bleacher Report, the Red Sox are expected to make Auburn sophomore Chris Rembert their first-round pick in the upcoming MLB Draft on July 11, 2026. The move could mark the beginning of a new era at second base for Boston, with Rembert seen as the future cornerstone of their infield.

A Storied Legacy at Second Base

Before looking ahead, it’s important to recognize the massive shoes that need filling. Dustin Pedroia was not only a fan favorite but also one of the most respected second basemen in recent MLB history. His 2008 MVP season remains one of the most dominant by a second baseman in the modern era, and his defense at second was unparalleled. Pedroia’s leadership and ability to grind out every at-bat set him apart, and while the Red Sox have seen numerous players try to step into the role, none have been able to replicate his consistency or impact.

Since Pedroia’s departure, the Red Sox have cycled through seven different opening-day second basemen. None of them have been able to establish themselves as a permanent solution. From Eduardo Nunez to Kike Hernandez, the position has been in flux. But could Chris Rembert be the answer?

Chris Rembert’s ‘Massive’ Freshman Season

Coming off what World Baseball Network’s Alfred Ezman called a “massive freshman season,” Chris Rembert has thrust himself into the national spotlight. As a sophomore at Auburn University, Rembert put up eye-popping numbers, slashing a .344 batting average, with an impressive 1.022 OPS. Over 260 plate appearances, he smashed 10 home runs, adding to his already impressive résumé. His ability to control the strike zone, as evidenced by walking more than he struck out (37 walks to 36 strikeouts), is an attribute that should catch the Red Sox’s attention, given their emphasis on plate discipline and on-base percentage.

But Rembert’s breakout year wasn’t just about his college stats. He also impressed on the international stage, as he earned a spot in the prestigious Team USA summer series. During a set of games against the Japan Collegiate All-Stars, Rembert started four games and made his presence felt, notching five hits in 18 at-bats, a team-best .278 batting average. His performance during this international competition proved that his success wasn’t confined to the college game, showing that he could hang with some of the best young players in the world.

Scouting Report: Rembert’s Potential

As highlighted by Reuter, Rembert’s ability to make consistent contact and handle elite pitching is what sets him apart. His quick hands and advanced approach at the plate give him a 60-grade hit tool, which is a strong indicator of his potential at the next level. Rembert’s keen eye for the strike zone and ability to avoid chase pitches makes him a threat at the plate, not just for his power but for his ability to consistently get on base.

Comparisons to Howie Kendrick—a former MLB All-Star and long-time reliable second baseman—have begun to surface, and it’s easy to see why. Kendrick was known for his ability to hit for both power and average while playing solid defense at second base. If Rembert can develop into a similar player, the Red Sox will have a reliable middle infielder who can contribute across multiple facets of the game.

Why Rembert Makes Sense for the Red Sox

The Red Sox are in a unique position. 2025 was a season of rebuilding, and 2026 is the year they hope to return to the top. The team already has solid talent in the lineup, but adding a player like Chris Rembert could provide the franchise with a long-term solution at second base, a position that has been in flux for years.

As Boston looks to rebuild their infield, Rembert’s versatility and offensive upside make him an excellent fit. With his solid contact skills and a knack for getting on base, Rembert could form a dynamic duo alongside Xander Bogaerts (if he re-signs with the team) or potentially a new shortstop in the coming years. Additionally, Rembert’s presence could help solidify the defense at second base, an area that has often been a weak spot in recent seasons.

The Red Sox’s Draft Strategy: Looking to the Future

The Red Sox are no strangers to making bold moves in the draft. In recent years, they’ve shown an increasing commitment to developing young talent and building a sustainable team for the future. Drafting Rembert would align perfectly with this strategy, giving them a potential everyday player at a key position for years to come.

Boston’s front office will be watching Rembert closely over the next few months, and they’ll likely get a closer look at him during spring training and throughout the 2026 season. If he continues to impress, he could very well be the team’s first-round pick come July 11.

The Path Ahead for Rembert and the Red Sox

While the Red Sox are still in the early stages of their rebuilding phase, adding Chris Rembert could signal a major step forward in their quest to solidify their future. Second base has long been an issue for the team, and Rembert could be the answer they’ve been searching for.

But as with any top draft pick, there are no guarantees. Rembert will need to continue to develop his game, refine his defensive skills, and adjust to the level of competition at the professional ranks. But based on his tremendous potential, the Red Sox appear to be in the right place at the right time to land a young player who could one day fill Pedroia’s legendary shoes.

The Future Looks Bright for the Red Sox Infield

As we head toward the 2026 MLB Draft, keep an eye on Chris Rembert. With his impressive college numbers, strong international performance, and potential as an all-around player, he’s one of the most exciting prospects on the market. The Red Sox will have the opportunity to add a player who could be the future of their infield and, perhaps, the next great second baseman in the team’s storied history.

As the 2026 season unfolds, it will be interesting to see if the Red Sox can continue to make smart moves to complement their talented roster. Rembert’s potential is undeniable, and if the Red Sox do indeed select him, they’ll be one step closer to solving their long-standing second base problem.