Top Red Sox prospect Kristian Campbell’s 2024 season appears to be finished after being placed on Triple-A Worcester’s 7-day injured list due to a left lat strain. Campbell sustained the injury while running to first base during Worcester’s 7-0 win against the Syracuse Mets. While there is a slim chance he could return if the WooSox make the International League playoffs, the Red Sox are prioritizing caution to ensure he remains healthy heading into the offseason, according to Alex Speier of The Boston Globe.
Brian Abraham, the Red Sox’s director of player development, stressed the importance of Campbell’s long-term health. “We need to be smart and think about the bigger picture,” Abraham told Speier. He also hinted that the team may step in to guarantee Campbell’s healthy recovery, even if the player wants to return sooner.
Campbell, who was drafted 132nd overall last year from Georgia Tech, started his season in High-A Greenville, where he displayed both power and versatility, hitting .306/.418/.558 with eight home runs and 25 RBIs in 40 games. His performance led to promotions to Double-A Portland and later to Triple-A Worcester. Over the three levels, Campbell posted an impressive .330/.439/.558 with 32 doubles, 20 home runs, 77 RBIs, and 24 stolen bases in 115 games. Defensively, the 6-foot-3 player showcased his versatility, playing four different positions and earning recognition as Portland’s Defensive Player of the Year.
Though he wasn’t ranked among the Red Sox’s top 30 prospects at the start of the season, Campbell has surged to No. 3 in Boston’s system, according to Baseball America, and No. 24 overall in the sport. His breakout year has made him a key future asset for the Red Sox, with a potential debut in the big leagues as early as next summer. However, it remains uncertain whether he might be involved in offseason trade talks as Boston plans for 2025.
