The 2010 regular season is just over one week old and we had our first opportunity to examine some of the new players Theo Epstein signed or traded for this off-season. Even though it is still early, I thought it would be a great time to focus on one of the new additions to the club on a weekly basis and take a peak at their impact on the team thus far. First up is 3B Adrian Beltre.
Through 7 games, Adrian Beltre has been a strong contributor to the Sox, both offensively and defensively. His .375 average is tops on the team and his six RBIs are second only to fellow infielder Dustin Pedroia. Beltre doesn’t have a home run yet, which is the only negative thus far, but will prove to be critical as the season progresses. If Beltre can return to his 20+ home run form, his addition could reap serious benefits down the stretch and into the playoffs. The best quality of Beltre’s, however, isn’t his offense, but his defense.
Over the course of his 13-year career, Beltre has been one of the most impressive defensive 3rd baseman in baseball and has only continued his success with the Red Sox. Beltre has accumulated 1328 putouts and 3201 assists while maintaining a .957 career fielding percentage. To this point in 2010, Beltre has a perfect fielding percentage and has been a part of three double-plays with his new infield teammates and is looking to capture his 3rd gold glove in four years (2007, 2008). As the group bonds and gains more chemistry, the Sox infield will only continue to improve an succeed as a group.
Beltre joined the Sox in the tough position of having to replace a fan and staff favorite in Mike Lowell. For any player, that is a difficult an awkward position, especially when the player is still on the roster, but Beltre has handled it will class and dignity. He comes to the ballpark every day ready to work and play hard and earn his spot in the lineup. Beltre is not looking to replace Lowell, but be the best player he can be at all times and respect his teammates and fans.
It is still extremely early in the season to make judgments, but Beltre has been a rock at the hot corner in week one. He should continue to be protected in the middle of a stacked Sox lineup and will get pitches to hit on a regular basis. Beltre has been the best position-player addition thus far and looks to continue to improve and grow until season’s end.
Add us as a preferred source on Google