It doesn't appear as though Pablo Sandoval is guaranteed a starting role with the Boston Red Sox despite eight years of experience, two All-Star seasons, three World Series rings and a contract will pay him an average of $19 million annually through 2019.

John Farrell says Sandoval must earn back his job as the club's everyday third baseman. Travis Shaw is in the mix to start on April 4 in Cleveland.

"Every year I have to prove something to my teammates, to the fans, to everybody," Sandoval said. "Why am I going to get mad? We are teammates, we're playing good. It's not my decision; it's not [Shaw's] decision. We're going to keep playing and working hard."

Farrell said Saturday that Shaw "could be competing for regular at-bats" and that there "could be potential for more" than merely a utility role. Later, he added that Sandoval "is aware the work has to translate to performance."