Apr 21, 2015; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Boston Red Sox catcher Ryan Hanigan (10) scores a run during the third inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Double-A Portland Sea Dogs
Game One
- The Sea Dogs also played two games as a result of a postponed game on Sunday, but they had a bit more success than the PawSox (who failed to score a run in two games). In fact, a few of Boston’s big prospects in Portland actually put together strong performances yesterday.
Carlos Asuaje (1-4, 3B, K)
Ryan Hanigan (0-3, BB)
Williams Jerez (1.1 IP, 2 H, R, ER, 2 BB, 2 K)
- Jerez is an interesting case as a converted outfielder who has taken well to the mound. In fact, the former second round pick has flown through the Red Sox organization since being converted and finds himself in Double-A after just a year and a half of pitching. However, he struggled yesterday in just his second game in Portland.
Manuel Margot (3-4, 2 2B, 2 BB, RBI)
- Margot posts a huge game here, recording three hits including two doubles. It’s tough to see where Margot fits into the Red Sox’ future, but he’s an incredibly talented player with the potential to be an elite leadoff hitter and center fielder. If he continues to perform, he’ll find his way into Boston’s plans whether as an outfielder or a trade chip for a key player.
Sam Travis (0-4, R)
Game Two
Carlos Asuaje (1-2, BB)
Ryan Hanigan (2-3, 2B)
- Hanigan, who can return from his DL trip on July 1st, begins his rehab assignment with a strong day at the plate. The Red Sox catching situation is a bit up the air after Hanigan returns, but it seems reasonable to expect that the Red Sox will go forward with the tandem of Hanigan and prospect Blake Swihart in a lost season, designating Sandy Leon for assignment.
Manuel Margot (1-2, SB)
Simon Mercedes (3.1 IP, 3 H, R, ER, 2 K)
- Mercedes has gone through some rough patches in his first season serving fully out of the bullpen, but he is sporting a 3.95 ERA in 19 appearances out of the bullpen. He has a power fastball and if he can harness his command, he has the potential to be a solid late-inning piece.
Sam Travis (1-3, K)