Caleb Durbin, the new infielder for the Boston Red Sox, is entering the upcoming season with a clean bill of health after a successful offseason surgery to remove a bone spur from his elbow. Traded from the Milwaukee Brewers last week, Durbin expressed relief that the pain he experienced during his rookie season turned out to be manageable and was linked to a minor issue.
Reflecting on his time with the Brewers, Durbin noted that while he experienced elbow pain mid-season, he remained proactive, collaborating with the team’s training staff to monitor it. After the postseason’s conclusion, he underwent arthroscopic surgery, which allowed him to rest and rehab the elbow while enjoying a much-deserved break following a demanding season where he participated in 136 regular-season games and nine playoff matches.
Now, as he embarks on this new chapter with the Red Sox, Durbin is focused on his preparation at training camp in Florida. He has reported no issues with his elbow during the camp’s first week, taking extra measures for recovery and activation before throwing. The Red Sox coaching staff, led by manager Alex Cora, is assessing how Durbin and fellow infielder Marcelo Mayer fit together. While Durbin has primarily played third base early on, he is also expected to see time at second base, a position he is well-familiar with from his minor league experience.
In fact, Durbin played 153 out of 294 minor-league games at second base before transitioning to third with the Brewers due to their roster needs. His adaptability is evident as he embraces the possibility of further positional changes, contributing to team flexibility. Cora has praised Durbin’s agility and footwork, noting that his wrestling background aids his performance on the field. Durbin’s athleticism, honed during his wrestling days, enhances his defensive capabilities, benefiting infield dynamics.
Despite not being the initial target for the Red Sox this offseason, Durbin has emerged as an exciting prospect, signalizing the team’s shift towards improving their pitching and defense. With a notable performance last season—he finished third in the National League Rookie of the Year voting—he brings a strong skill set to the Red Sox infield, which has struggled defensively in recent years.
As training progresses, Durbin is optimistic about melding with teammates, including shortstop Trevor Story and Mayer, emphasizing the importance of infield drills designed to simulate game scenarios. He acknowledges the Red Sox’s intent to prioritize defense this season and looks forward to contributing to those efforts.
With his health concerns addressed and a solid foundation for his continued development, Durbin aims to bolster the Red Sox’s defensive lineup, embodying the team’s renewed commitment to excelling on the field. The strong camaraderie and dedicated training practices may lead to a promising season ahead, as Durbin and his teammates work together to enhance their collective performance.