Memory Lane: Luke Wrenn’s impact as Red Sox scout 1990-1999

BOSTON, MA - JUNE 23: The number of former Boston Red Sox player David Ortiz #34 is retired during a ceremony before a game against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim at Fenway Park on June 23, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - JUNE 23: The number of former Boston Red Sox player David Ortiz #34 is retired during a ceremony before a game against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim at Fenway Park on June 23, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) /
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SAN FRANCISCO – JULY 9: David Eckstein #22 of the St. Louis Cardinals swings at a pitch against the San Francisco Giants at SBC Park on July 9th, 2005 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Jed Jacobsohn/Getty Images) /

Similarly, Wrenn hit his scouting report of David Eckstein out of the ballpark. Eckstein only spent a few years with the Red Sox, eventually moving on and making his name for himself within other organizations. Eckstein spent 10 years in MLB, is a 2x All-Star, Willie Mays World Series MVP, and AL Babe Ruth Award Winner. In the scouting report, he noted that:

"“This guy has the work ethic and attitude you love to see. Overachiever type that I would like to have. Will hang around for a long time in Pro ball because managers are going to love him.” More from Red Sox News Dave Dombrowski reunites with former Red Sox ace on Phillies 10 grievances against the Boston Red Sox in honor of Seinfeld holiday Festivus Red Sox risk repeating rookie mistake with Eric Hosmer release Former MLB All-Star slams Red Sox for ’embarrassing’ treatment of Rafael Devers Red Sox invited group of players you’ve probably never heard of to Spring Training"

Again, in his analysis we see Wrenn focusing on the importance of the characteristics of Eckstein off-the-field. He saw that Eckstein, small and mighty, was a player that would work hard. He would outperform expectations that others had of him. Wrenn was right about both players. Throughout his career, Eckstein proved everyone wrong. While Wrenn was a fan of Eckstein, he even underestimated him. Wrenn predicated that he would last 5 years and then have a career as a coach or a manager.  Years later, Wrenn admitted that

"“I shouldn’t have said that. Believe me, I’ve learned, you can’t underestimate that kid.”"

Another great trait that Wrenn has, admitting when he was wrong.