Monster — An Ode to 2026

Fort Myers, FL - February 21: Boston Red Sox right fielder Roman Anthony led off at the top of the order. The Red Sox played the Minnesota Twins at Hammond Stadium on February 21, 2026. (Photo by Barry Chin/The Boston Globe via Getty Images) | Boston Globe via Getty Images ’Twas brillig on Jersey Street The fans roared loud and rumbled, In Fenway’s yard where the faithful played all eager, loud, and jumbled; The Green Monster looms in left field deep, its shadow cold and wide, It calls to every driven sweep, then sends it screaming back inside.

“Beware the Sox, my son! ” they cried, “you’ve heard the echo of that sound— Beware the Monster looming green, no lead stays safe on Fenway’s ground! ” Its mouth is wide for frozen ropes, it spits them back with steam— Few balls escape that towering wall or strike the ladder’s beam!

And now the lineup takes its shape, as names are called out clear, From glove to bat, from plate to field, each set to start the year. Mayer, sure and quick of hand, now shifted o’er the field, At second base he takes his place with more yet to be revealed. View Link And Story, veteran at short, commands the infield true, A steady voice on every play to guide the whole thing through.

Together up the middle set, they make the double play, From pivot turn to throw across they take the hit away. And Durbin, new at third with poise, where hot shots come in fast, He fields them clean and fires across, and gets them all at last. And now Contreras held at first with strength, a steady glove to guide, Through long and winding plays he stretched and anchored every side.