Former Red Sox INF: José Iglesias
My God, has there ever been a better signing after the Trade Deadline? I’m sure there has, but my recency bias is off the charts with José Iglesias as this guy WAS the team for the short time he was back with the Red Sox. Obviously, this wasn’t his first stint with the club but he made sure to make every single game count and it’s a major reason why I want him back.
Since he was picked up after the Deadline came and went he wasn’t eligible for the Postseason but you’d never be able to tell that by his demeanor and style of play. He was brought in to fill the void at second base while Christian Arroyo was on the shelf and he more than earned every inning he was on the field. In 23 games with the Red Sox, he slashed an insane .356/.406/.508 line with one homer and 7 RBI.
Whether it was clutch hits or flashy as hell defensive plays, José was the man more nights than he wasn’t. When it came time for him to just hang out in the dugout during the Postseason he didn’t let up with his energy whatsoever. He’s the definition of a “clubhouse guy,” and would often be one of the first to congratulate someone on a big hit or a pitcher for a great outing.
We still have plenty of question marks surrounding second base as the rumor mill had the Red Sox linked to some infielders but in my eyes, the best option is Iglesias. He loves the guys he played with, they love him right back, and the guy can flat-out play. I truly believe he’d be a great signing ahead of the 2022 season.