When the Boston Red Sox made the move to bring in Willson Contreras from St. Louis, they knew they were getting a proven veteran. But even the most optimistic projections didn't quite capture what the first baseman has delivered in the early weeks of the 2025 season.

Through the team's first 35 games, Contreras has missed only one contest — and he's made every appearance count. Leading the Red Sox in home runs (seven), RBIs (21), slugging percentage (.475), and OPS (.856), he's quickly become the anchor of a lineup that has otherwise struggled to find its footing.

With young stars like Roman Anthony sidelined by injury and other key bats failing to find their rhythm, Contreras has stepped up as Boston's most dangerous hitter. It's a role he's embraced, both at the plate and in the clubhouse.

Tim Britton, senior writer for The Athletic, recently named Contreras the team's "April All-Star," writing that the veteran "has matched and exceeded the expectations that greeted his acquisition from St. Louis." Britton noted that Contreras and outfielder Wilyer Abreu have essentially carried the Boston offense while so many others have struggled.

But it's not just the bat that's turning heads. Contreras has also elevated his defense at first base, showing a level of versatility and commitment that has made him an emotional leader in the clubhouse. If he keeps this pace, he could be headed to his first All-Star Game since 2022 — and give Red Sox fans a genuine reason to cheer in a season that's had its share of disappointments.