Bogaerts on Anthony: New Face of Red Sox

0:00On April 3rd, Zander Bogartz, the 33-year-old shortstop now with a San Diego Padres, spent his first ten seasons lighting it up for the Boston Red Sox. As a five-time all-star, he knows the Fenway Spotlight better than most. But facing his old team this weekend, he dropped some real talk about the new kid on the block, Roman Anthony, the early 20s outfield phenom who, just locked in a big extension right after debuting. Earlier this week, Bogartz laughed about the difference, saying he can't even relate to getting that kind of deal so quick. Back in the day, he did sign a six-year, $120 million extension with Boston, but he opted out after three years and bolted to San. Diego, on an 11-year, $270 million contract before the 2023 season. Red Sox fans still feel that sting from losing Bogartz, along with champs like Mookie Betz and Rafael Divers. Now, with those bets gone, Anthony's carrying the weight as the fresh face of the franchise.

1:00Bogartz sees it clear, calling him a really good player and a nice kid who stepped up big amid last year's shakeups. Meanwhile, Boston's digging out of a one-and-five start in this weekend's series against the Padres hits extra hard. It's not just Bogartz reminding them of free agency regrets. Walker-Bueller's there, too, after the Sox cut him from his $21 million deal. Last August in San Diego, scooped him on a minor league pact. A few wins here could spark those good vibes and ease the pressure on Anthony's shoulders, setting the tone for what's next in Boston. I'm Corey with The Story, and you've been listening to MLB News today, AI-powered baseball coverage.