Rates & Barrels: A show about Baseball Team Previews: Red Sox, Tigers & Twins
Feb 27, 2026
Jen McCaffrey, Red Sox beat writer covering roster plans and pitching depth. Cody Stavenhagen, Tigers beat writer breaking down Detroit’s rotation, bullpen and prospect timeline. Aaron Gleeman, Twins beat writer untangling Minnesota’s offseason, front office shakeup and pitching injuries. They debate playing-time logjams, recovery timelines, rotation depth, bullpen roles, and prospect windows in short, lively takes.
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Let Campbell Rebuild With Regular At‑Bats
- Christian Campbell should focus on rebuilding his swing and play regular outfield reps to regain value rather than sit as a defensive utility bench piece.
- McCaffrey says Campbell lowered his hands, studied elite hitters, and may start in AAA to get consistent at-bats before joining Boston.
Casas Likely Starts In AAA After Major Knee Surgery
- Tristan Casas is recovering from a ruptured patellar tendon and is likely to begin 2026 in Triple‑A, targeting a midseason return rather than opening day.
- McCaffrey explains Casas still needs all‑out sprints before game action after hitting and fielding work.
Red Sox Rotation Remade But Fifth Spot Remains Fluid
- Boston's pitching overhaul centers on Suarez, Sonny Gray, and Ranger Suarez (added), with Oviedo, Cutter Crawford, and Patrick Sandoval providing backend depth and options.
- McCaffrey sees Johan Oviedo as early favorite for the fifth spot but notes options and recovery timelines could reshuffle roles.