Top-5 Red Sox prospects signed on the international market
By Sean Penney
Red Sox infield prospect Brainer Bonaci
Brainer Bonaci signed with the Red Sox out of Venezuela on his 16th birthday in 2018 and he made his pro debut in the Rookie-level Dominican Summer League the following year.
The 2020 minor league season that was cancelled by the pandemic delayed his debut in the United States. His production was a bit underwhelming last season but transitioning to another country after a year without any game action has to be factored into his evaluation.
Bonaci hit .245 with a .719 OPS, two home runs, two triples and 16 doubles in 49 games split between Rookie ball and Low-A Salem. He has above-average speed, swiping 12 bases without getting caught.
The switch-hitting infielder doesn’t bring much power to the plate but he hits line drives that should lead to some gap power as he grows stronger.
Bonaci is a good defensive shortstop with a strong throwing arm. He has the tools to stick at the position and Bonaci improved his versatility by spending some time at second base last season. He also gained some experience at third base when he was playing in the Dominican.
He may not have a high ceiling but Bonaci has a decent floor. He should at least be able to make it as a utility player who offers strong defense at multiple positions or a defensive-minded shortstop. He’s never going to be a home run hitter but developing enough power to rack up doubles could be enough to earn him an everyday role.