Boston Red Sox top-30 prospect rankings after the 2021 season

No. 26: Red Sox shortstop prospect Brainer Bonaci

Brainer Bonaci is a very intriguing prospect. He already has phenomenal defensive tools. However, his game at the plate leaves some to be desired. The switch-hitter absolutely has potential offensively, but he’ll need to make some improvements.

In 2021, Bonaci slashed .245/.336/.383 in 188 at-bats between Rookie Ball and Low-A. His numbers in Low-A were not very good, but again he has the potential and he’s shown flashes.

It’s also important to remember that he is only 19 – so there is a reason he seems so raw. There were also some positives in that slash line. For example, in just 188 at-bats, Bonaci managed 16 doubles, two triples, and two home runs.

Now, the shortstop doesn’t really have much home run power. It does look like he can hit it into the gaps though. And he certainly has the speed to stretch those into doubles and triples. Maybe he can sneak some extra power into his game and go for 10-plus homers.

It was also good to see him show patience. Despite being extremely young, Bonaci limited his strikeouts to 45. That’s definitely not a terrible number although it could use some work. The big positive though was the fact that he also walked 24 times. A solid amount that shows good maturity and restraint at the plate – great for a player who isn’t going to have the most devastating bat.

Oh, and that speed? Bonaci is doing fantastic in that department. Legitimate 25-plus steal speed. He can help impact games heavily on the base paths if he gets on. This is something the Red Sox could certainly use.

Finally, there’s the defense. Bonaci is phenomenal here. Even at just 19, he has an elite arm. Great strength and has shown pinpoint accuracy too. He’s got good range and can make the flashy plays, but is also extremely trustworthy to make the routine ones without fail. Already great, if he can continue to mature this could be what gets him to the Majors.

Overall, Bonaci has a lot of work to do offensively. His speed and defense could carry him a long way though. That’s a combination that will never get old. And at just 19, he has a lot of time to grow and become a part of the Red Sox future in 4-5 years (he’d still be south of 25).

Hit: 50
Power: 40
Run: 60
Arm: 70
Field: 60
Overall: 55