Red Sox consider Sogard, Toro as backup first baseman

The Boston Red Sox are monitoring Romy Gonzalez's injury closely. An MRI showed inflammation in his oblique muscle. Although the team hopes he will be ready for Opening Day on March 27, Manager Alex Cora said they will take it day by day. “We have to be smart about it,” Cora added. If Gonzalez is not ready, the Red Sox will need a backup for first baseman Triston Casas. Cora mentioned Nick Sogard and Abraham Toro as potential candidates. Toro has played first and third base in the past and is seen as an experienced option. Cora also stated that they want to avoid using catcher Connor Wong at first base unless absolutely necessary. Wong made six starts there last season but will focus on his catcher duties due to the inexperience of the other catchers on the roster. Carlos Narvaez and Blake Sabol are competing to be Wong’s backup behind the plate. Sogard has limited experience at first base, with only four games played. In contrast, Toro has more experience, having played both in the majors and minors. The team's situation will continue to develop as they prepare for the season.