Red Sox Position Battles: Four options who could play second base
By Kyle Porch
With spring training right around the corner, who can we expect to see play second base for the Boston Red Sox during the 2019 season?
With the long offseason finally coming to an end, all eyes will be on the defending champion Boston Red Sox and how they can contend in 2019. Second baseman Dustin Pedroia looks to bounce back and help contribute to this already talented team.
Pedroia will have some competition at his position, depending on when he is available and to how limited he is. After only appearing in three games last season, he became a presence in the clubhouse by being in the dugout with the team. While reports say he is feeling great and starting baseball activities, he probably won’t be the Opening Day starter. His target is during the season.
With that being said, who is Pedroia’s competition for the job?
Brock Holt
Brock Holt did some amazing things as the second baseman in the postseason. Including hitting for the cycle in a 16-1 game at Yankee Stadium. He also played some sharp defense at the position. The utility man has been known for playing everywhere when needed, but he might have found a home until Pedroia can consistently stay healthy.
Eduardo Nunez
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Eduardo Nunez also played in the postseason but he didn’t show out as well as Holt. He is a slick defender with great fielding ability and range. His presence in the lineup also provides an “it factor” as he can flash the ability to hit for power, as well as stretching extra bases out of good hits with his speed. When the Red Sox traded for him he provided an extra boost to the ball club that helped Boston reach the postseason. He will find time on Holt’s off days, then spending time as a utility when Pedroia comes back to the everyday lineup.
Tzu-Wei Lin
While Tzu-Wei Lin is the dark horse in this scenario, he could make the 25-man roster until Dustin’s revival. He performed well in his short stint at the major league level, but ultimately the excess amount of infielders gave him the short end of the stick. Lin also flashes excellence in his defensive abilities, but lightning fast speed helps. Although his time is limited, the talent is there for the speedy utility guy.
The need for these backup plans depends on Pedroia staying healthy and making a smooth recovery from here. While we will not know how ready he is until he hits the field, all of Red Sox nation will be watching, eager to see if the three-time champion can make a fight for number four.
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