Slashing .294/.356/.446 can actually be considered a disappointment, but that is all based on a second half drop. Is it just a glitch or a precursor to what the future may hold? How bad was it? After the break Bogaerts hit .253, but had 11 of his 21 home runs. Maybe the short stint batting sixth (.375) will help?
Bogaerts went from an All-Star to one who was questionable in the second half. From a potential batting champion to missing out on hitting .300. The deeper metrics also show a comparable drag, but why focus on the drudgery they present? The second half was the Bogaerts of 2014.
Defensively Bogaerts is considered just in the average range as nothing special or exceptionally and certainly no dud. Boagerts range, arm, and instincts will not stand out so the apt term is to say he is “steady” at short. Bogaerts was once projected for third base and that may eventually happen.
Bogaerts is young at 24-years-old and may have that developing power that could suddenly blossom – especially at Fenway Park where he enjoys hitting with a career .311 average compared to .261 on the road. The upside for Bogaerts is still present – especially with his potential power.
Who plays short?
The only free agent of note is the slick fielding Alcides Escobar and the Royals most certainly will exercise their option. The ever present Holt plays a capable shortstop, but is far less proficient with the bat – especially power.
The Red Sox system is dry with only light hitting Deven Marrero capable of handling the defensive side of the position. The reality is the gifted defensive Marrero can’t hit MLB pitching and barely survives at the minor league level.
Marco Hernandez – a versatile player – hit .294 in a brief trial in Boston. Do you trust Hernandez with the job? I don’t. Mauricio Dubon made substantial progress in 2016, but is at least two years away and being a regular is a longshot.
Trade Chance: Almost Zero