The Boston Red Sox have experienced a rollercoaster start to the 2025 MLB season. Their 4-3 defeat against the Texas Rangers on Saturday put their record at 1-2, raising questions about whether Alex Cora’s squad can clinch a crucial victory to split the series on Sunday.

Despite the rocky beginning, the Red Sox have seen some bright spots. Notably, top prospect Kristian Campbell has surpassed all expectations since making the Opening Day lineup, highlighted by his first MLB home run that tied the game in the fourth inning on Saturday.

This solo shot is just the latest in Campbell’s series of impressive performances, prompting the team to actively pursue a long-term contract with him. According to Chris Cotillo of MassLive, the Red Sox are “deeply engaged in negotiations” for a contract extension with Campbell following his strong start to the season.

“One person close to the talks described the deal as ‘near,’ while a source within the Red Sox expressed optimism about reaching an agreement by late Saturday night,” Cotillo reported. “The specifics remain unknown, and the team has not confirmed any deal.” On the night Campbell hit his inaugural major league home run, he and the Red Sox were reportedly in serious discussions about a contract extension, multiple sources indicate. — Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) March 30, 2025.

Drafted in the fourth round of the 2023 MLB draft, Campbell has quickly risen to become one of baseball’s most promising young talents. Heading into Opening Day, the Chattanooga, TN native was ranked as the No. 7 prospect on MLBcom’s pre-2025 list.

Despite a less-than-stellar spring training, Red Sox manager Alex Cora appointed Campbell as the team’s starting second baseman earlier this month. This decision has been validated as the 22-year-old standout has already amassed five hits (including a double and a home run), an RBI, and two walks while posting a slash line of .500/.583/.900 in his initial 12 plate appearances.

Although it’s a limited sample size and things can shift quickly, Campbell is already proving his ability to thrive in the majors. The 6-foot-3 power hitter can bolster his chances of securing an extension with another stellar outing against the Rangers on Sunday. His excellent start has also made him FanDuel Sportsbook’s +430 favorite to claim the 2025 AL Rookie of the Year title.