On the same day Isiah Kiner-Falefa took reps at first base during spring workouts, Red Sox manager Alex Cora made it clear: Kiner-Falefa, Connor Wong, and Nick Sogard are all in the mix as backup options at first base heading into the 2026 season. The starter?

That job belongs to Willson Contreras. But behind him, the Sox are building a safety net-and it’s a group defined more by versatility than experience.

Let’s start with Kiner-Falefa. He’s played just about everywhere on the diamond over the course of his career-shortstop, third base, second base, even some time behind the plate-but first base is new territory at the major league level.

In fact, he hasn’t logged a single big-league inning there. The only first base action on his resume dates back to 2016 in the minors, and that was a brief cameo.

Still, the fact that he’s getting work there now suggests the Red Sox see value in his adaptability, especially in a season where roster flexibility could be key.

Sogard, meanwhile, does have some big-league experience at first, albeit in a limited role. He’s spent parts of seasons with Boston and has slotted in at the position when needed. He’s not a traditional first baseman by trade, but his familiarity with the spot gives the Red Sox a bit more confidence if they need to call his number.

Then there’s Connor Wong. Known primarily as a catcher, Wong’s athleticism has allowed him to dabble at first base in a pinch.

His first career start at the position came in August 2024 against the Rangers, and while his total innings there remain modest-15 appearances, six starts-he’s made them count. Wong has flashed some real defensive instincts at first, pulling off highlight-worthy plays like diving stops and leaping grabs.

It’s a small sample size, but it’s shown the coaching staff that he can hold his own if pressed into service.

What ties this trio together is their role: depth. None of them are being groomed as long-term solutions at first base, but they’re insurance policies-capable, athletic, and willing to step in when needed.

With Contreras locked in as the everyday guy, Boston’s not looking for a platoon. But in a long season, where injuries and late-game substitutions are part of the grind, having a few Swiss Army knives on the roster isn’t just a luxury-it’s a necessity.

So while Kiner-Falefa, Sogard, and Wong might not be the names you expect to see penciled in at first base regularly, their presence gives the Red Sox some peace of mind. And in a league where roster depth can make or break a season, that kind of flexibility is worth its weight in gold.