Red Sox top-30 prospect rankings after the 2018 season

19. Josh Ockimey

Raw power is the name of the game for Josh Ockimey. The left-handed hitter set a new career-mark in 2018 with 20 home runs. He also had 71 RBI on the year, which was three off his career-best of 74.

Ockimey’s average was low in 2018, at .245. It was also, however, a season in which he split time between Double-A and Triple-A. Before 2018 he only had 31 games above Advanced-A.

The average isn’t what brings intrigue with Ockimey though. He can hit .250 or better, but if you’re expecting a .300 hitter you’ll more-than-likely be disappointed.

His defense at first base still isn’t spectacular, but he’s been improving steadily there over the last few years. When Ockimey was first brought into the organization, the projections were aiming more towards designated hitter. He’s improved enough to be a decent defender though which makes him a lot more valuable.

Ockimey’s home run totals aren’t indicative of the power potential he has. 30-plus home runs in the Majors would definitely be possible. It also helps that his swing would play extremely well at Fenway Park. He’s more of a pull-hitter but has the potential to hit to the opposite field and can do so for power. That means the Green Monster could be getting peppered by bullets in the near future.

The 22-year-old also has a clutch side at the plate. In 2018 he went 36-for-121 (.298) with runners in scoring position. So when given opportunities to drive in runs, Ockimey tends to capitalize.

Barring something drastic (like injuries or a massive season), don’t expect Ockimey in the Majors next year. Although he’s in Triple-A now it would be wise to be patient. He’s still 22 and there’s still more room for improvement in all areas of his game. If the Red Sox are patient with him, he could be a strong presence in their lineup for years.