Nava Quietly Putting Together A Solid Season

The Red Sox have had a lot of guys contributing to the cause during the 2013 season. High profile names like Shane Victorino and Jonny Gomes have received a lot of attention. Jake Peavey’s addition and John Lackey‘s resurgence have also netted a lot of love from Red Sox Nation. Amidst all the bigger names on the roster Daniel Nava is quietly putting together a solid season.

Sep 1, 2013; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox center fielder Qunitin Berry (left) and left fielder Daniel Nava (29) celebrate their victory over the Chicago White Sox at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports

Nava has been durable. With 443 plate appearances heading into Monday’s Labor Day game against the Tigers, Nava was batting .294 with 10 homers and 63 RBI. He has rarely been unavailable for play due to injury. With his fourth inning hit against Doug Fister on Monday, Nava has reached safely in 37 consecutive starts.

Nava has been flexible and valuable. He has alternately played left field, right field, center field and first base for Boston this year. Even while being shuttled back and forth to the position du jour by manager John Farrell, he has made only three errors all season.

Nava is a no drama, no BS kinda guy. Whatever position he plays and wherever he is in the order, Nava keeps his trap shut and plays ball. He is by definition of his actions a professional baseball player.

Nava has gotten better as the season has gone on. With few breaks both his batting average and BABIP have steadily risen during the season, in August topping out at .396 and .514 respectively.

Nava has been good in the clutch. With none on Nava hits .276. With men on base he hits .316 and runners in scoring position he hits .304.

If his production continues he could become a key piece of the Red Sox playoff puzzle.