Who's on first for the Red Sox?

3 of 8

Jul 7, 2015; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox third baseman Travis Shaw (47) hits a single during the fourth inning against the Miami Marlins at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports

A great start does not necessarily mean a great career as demonstrated a few seasons back by Jackie Bradley, and Travis Shaw has certainly had a great start.

The 25-year-old combination third baseman and first baseman has a very smooth left-handed swing. In Pawtucket Shaw may have found himself with a .318 June that saw the third slot in the order become his home.

First baseman have a tendency to be tall and Shaw, at 6′ 4″, certainly provides that target. Scouting reports list an above average arm and a capable, but not spectacular. Shaw can play first, so the defensive part of the equation is firmly in place, but you gotta hit.

Between Portland and Pawtucket in 2014 Shaw hit 21 home runs and had 78 RBI and managed 57 walks and 99 strikeouts between the two teams. For Shaw’s five-year minor league career he has hit .261 with some good, but not spectacular power numbers.

Will Shaw be one of those rare exception s that hit better in MLB than the minors? Right now he has the opportunity.