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Red Sox: Is this year’s outfield as good as ’75?

By Chris Embree

May 5, 2015; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox hall of famers Jim Rice and Carl Yastrzemski stand in left field as part of the pregame ceremony before the game between the Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
May 5, 2015; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox hall of famers Jim Rice and Carl Yastrzemski stand in left field as part of the pregame ceremony before the game between the Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports /
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Center field

Fred Lynn

Fred Lynn’s 1975 season was one of the greatest seasons in Red Sox history. He ran the gambit of honors winning the Gold Glove, MVP and Rookie of the Year awards, and he was an all-star. Lynn had a slash line of .331/.401/.566 to go along with 21 HR and 105 RBI. He led the league with 103 runs scored and 47 doubles.

He was a staple in the Red Sox lineup, hitting 4th the whole year. Lynn was known for his spectacular plays in center field, which was reflected in his Gold Glove award. The season that Fred Lynn put together was remarkable and he made it clear that he was the best player in the league.

Jackie Bradley Jr.

Last year, Jackie Bradley Jr. lived up to his hype, putting together a breakthrough season. His defense has never been put into question. He has proven to be one of the game’s best defenders, with a unique and an exceptional blend of speed, range, instincts, and arm strength. It was his offense that took so long to come to fruition.

Bradley’s line was .267/.349/.486, but it was the unexpected power that surprised everyone. He had 26 HR, 87 RBI, and 30 doubles. JBJ also had a 29 game hit streak during the year and was named a starter in the All-Star game.

Who’s better? – Fred Lynn

I don’t think this is even close, and that’s not a knock on Jackie Bradley Jr. He had a good season, but Fred Lynn’s 1975 season was magical. Lynn was the best player on the planet in 1975. He did everything: played great defense, hit for average, hit for power, and he only struck out 90 times. Bradley was inconsistent at the plate at times during the season. It’s obvious that 1975 Fred Lynn is the better player.

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