3. Michael Chavis
I mentioned Chavis in the previous slide, but given the opportunity he may get this season, I think it is worth covering him more.
After an incredible senior year in high school, the Red Sox drafted Chavis in the 2014 MLB draft. After struggling in his first two minor league seasons, finishing with a .682 OPS in 2015 and a .684 OPS, he broke out in a big way in 2017. He finished with a .910 OPS across High-A and Double-A and hit 31 home runs while doing so. This season pushed him up the Red Sox prospect rankings, landing him at the top spot by the end of the season, with a little help from Andrew Benintendi and Rafael Devers graduating.
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His 2018 got off to a rocky start when he got hurt early in spring training and was soon suspended 80 games for PEDs. Once he finally returned, he picked up where he left off an posted a .919 OPS across 3 levels in 46 games.
Coming into 2019, Chavis may have the opportunity to make an impact at the major league level. Chavis profiles as a bat-first player, with some suspect defense. It is very possible he plays more elsewhere than at third, considering Devers is set to start at third base. Despite the return of Dustin Pedroia, second base still remains an unknown and Chavis could be utilized in the outfield at times. His days playing shortstop are likely behind him. However, a lot of his role depends on Pedroia’s health and productivity.