Red Sox Prospect Watch: Spring Training comes to an end

Mar 24, 2017; Dunedin, FL, USA; Boston Red Sox third baseman Marco Hernandez (40) throws to first for the out on Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Steve Pearce (28) in the third inning of a baseball game during spring training at Florida Auto Exchange Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Butch Dill-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 24, 2017; Dunedin, FL, USA; Boston Red Sox third baseman Marco Hernandez (40) throws to first for the out on Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Steve Pearce (28) in the third inning of a baseball game during spring training at Florida Auto Exchange Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Butch Dill-USA TODAY Sports
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Mar 1, 2017; Sarasota, FL, USA; Boston Red Sox shortstop Marco Hernandez (40) at Ed Smith Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 1, 2017; Sarasota, FL, USA; Boston Red Sox shortstop Marco Hernandez (40) at Ed Smith Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Hitters

While Andrew Benintendi is taking most of the spotlight, and rightfully so, there is another top 10 prospect that has had a great spring.  Brock Holt became a smash hit with the fans due to his production and his value as a super-utility player.  This year, Holt should have some competition with another utility player.  That would be Marco Hernandez.

Hernandez made his Major League debut last April, and he did not have the best year.  He was only in Boston for 40 games, and his .294 average was a very good sign.  The problem is Hernandez is a natural shortstop.  He is blocked at that position by Xander Bogaerts.

Hernandez is also a skilled second baseman, but he is also blocked there by Dustin Pedroia. Hernandez does have the ability to play six positions.  This is where is value lies.  Not only can Hernandez play the middle infield positions, he can also play in the outfield.

Finally, Hernandez can play third base, which could be very important.  Pablo Sandoval has had a good spring, and there is a chance that he could be a productive player this year for Boston.  But, history usually repeats itself.  And the Panda could easily succumb to poor play or injury.

While Hernandez has good news, the same can not be said for Deven Marrero.  On March 27th, Marrero was optioned to Pawtucket.  Marrero could be considered a worse version of Marco Hernandez. Obviously utility players are important, but you can’t fill your bench with only utility players.  Because of that, Marrero will probably only be called up when an injury happens.

Schedule