Roman Anthony was a late scratch, but with Marcelo Mayer and Kristian Campbell in the lineup, the spring opener was a preview of the future.

The pair played up the middle in the Red Sox' 5-2 win in their annual exhibition against Northeastern, with Mayer at shortstop and Campbell at second base.

Of Boston’s “Big 3” prospects, Marcelo Mayer may be the one with the most to prove this year, and that’s fine by him. He hates to lose. Always has.

MassLive's Sean McAdam recaps Friday's spring training game between the Red Sox and Northeastern which included the debuts of Marcelo Mayer and Kristian Campbell.

Alex Bregman has embraced his role as a leader at the Boston Red Sox, connecting with young talent like Marcelo Mayer. Bregman, who signed a $120 million contract, aims to continue his playoff streak and strengthen the team's infield defense despite teammate Rafael Devers' concerns.