Roman Anthony kicked off the 2026 MLB season by making Red Sox history. The outfielder began Boston’s Opening Day game against the Cincinnati Reds with a 112.3 mph single on the first pitch. At 21 years, 317 days old, Anthony became the youngest Red Sox player ever to reach base in the Red Sox’ first plate appearance of the year, per J.P. Long.

After an aggressive winter that saw chief baseball officer Craig Breslow pivot to a pursuit of elite talent, Red Sox fans are looking at an Opening Day roster that blends returning stars with new names.

Chapman, who pitched in Cincinnati for six seasons to begin his career, needed just 11 pitches to get the save against the Reds on Opening Day.

The Boston Red Sox phenom shined on Thursday afternoon.