Boston Red Sox Report Cards: Second baseman Ian Kinsler
The BoSox Injection team is grading the performances from every player of the 2018 Boston Red Sox. Next up is second baseman Ian Kinsler.
Ian Kinsler was brought in at the trade deadline when the Boston Red Sox needed an upgrade at second base in the wake of the season-ending injury to Dustin Pedroia.
Pedroia has been a staple at second base for many years and Kinsler was a proven replacement. He previously played with the Texas Rangers, Detroit Tigers, and Los Angeles Angels. Kinsler had done damage against the Red Sox in the past but now they would be able to benefit from his production.
Kinsler at one time was known for his bat but the Red Sox primarily picked him up because of his glove. He doesn’t make many errors, which helped the Red Sox have a solid defense. He was another key piece the Red Sox needed.
Kinsler was a key to Boston’s success down the stretch, helping them win the World Series in 2018.
Postseason:
Kinsler appeared in all three postseason series. His best performance was in the ALDS against the Yankees when he went 4-for-13 (.308). As the Red Sox got closer and on too the World Series, his average went down. He did have an RBI in the World Series.
Grade:
B. . Second Baseman. . Ian Kinsler
My grade for Kinsler is a B. His offensive numbers were solid between the Angels and Red Sox. He hit when he needed to. His defensive numbers were mutually close with both teams. Therefore, the Red Sox pursued him at the deadline. He was a big part of this team becoming world champs.
Looking ahead to 2019:
Kinsler is now a free agent and his potential return in 2019 will on hinder on the status of Pedroia, who will continue rehabbing his knee this offseason but won’t require surgery. If Pedroia can’t start at second base at the start of spring training, Kinsler will be a good replacement if he returns.
Next. Free agent relief pitcher targets. dark
The Red Sox do not want to have a question at second. The defense was solid in 2018 and they would like to keep it that way. Kinsler is an on-base player and hits for average. He occasionally will still hit home runs which is the bonus he brings. Even if Pedroia comes back, Kinsler would be a good option to hold on too. When he needs a day off, Kinsler would be a talented player to go in. Let see how his 2019 goes.