In the midst of a career-best offensive campaign, Ceddanne Rafaela had the look and feel of an All-Star. Despite that, he was left off the initial American League roster (due in part to the Boston Red Sox's struggles as a team). Thankfully, common sense has prevailed, as some injuries paved the way for the 25-year-old to make his Midsummer Classic debut this year.
His growth at the plate has been the major story of his 2026 season, as he's posting highwater marks in nearly every notable category. His slash line of .281/.328/.433 marks his best output in each statistic, leading to his first-ever above-average season by wRC+ (108). Add eight homers and 12 steals to the mix, and you've got a recipe for a genuine top-of-the-order threat.
Still, it's Rafaela's defense that shines brightest. After running away with the Gold Glove award in center field last year, he's right back in the mix this season, posting an absurd 12 Outs Above Average and 16 Defensive Runs Saved in the first half. Both marks are fourth among all MLB players regardless of position, while the former is second among outfielders.
It's not as if he needs the recognition, but what better way to celebrate Rafaela's maiden All-Star campaign than with an endorsement from the only other outfielder who exists on his defensive plane?
Pete Crow-Armstrong spoke with @BGlobeSports about why Ceddanne Rafaela is his favorite player:
— Tyler Milliken (@tylermilliken_) July 14, 2026
“I’m a huge fan of anybody who can play multiple positions… But then you add in the fact that he’s a Gold Glover and there’s nothing to dislike about Ceddanne’s game. I like playing… pic.twitter.com/ogVNpbdisj
Pete Crow-Armstrong has laid out the blueprint for Red Sox Ceddanne Rafaela's jump to superstardom
Pete Crow-Armstrong is one of the brightest young stars in baseball right now and almost certainly the best defender in the sport, so when he says that "there’s nothing to dislike about Ceddanne’s game," it's best to take his word for it.
That'd be gaudy praise from anyone, but it just so happens that PCA is sort of the prototype for what Rafaela can become. They're both otherworldly defenders in center field, hence their ridiculously high floors and big WAR totals. But the step forward we've seen Rafaela take at the plate this year is the next step on his path to becoming more than just an injury replacement at the All-Star Game.
For reference, Rafaela's 2.9 fWAR ranks fourth among center fielders and tied for 27th in all of baseball this season. Crow-Armstrong has been worth more than double that figure (6.0 fWAR) despite posting very similar defensive metrics, thanks to an opportunistic approach at the plate (21 home runs) and blazing speed (24 steals). He's a free swinger like the Red Sox's star, but he's also learned to take a free pass here and there in order to use his wheels more frequently.
Point is, there's a blueprint to follow here. This isn't the first time PCA has shared his admiration for Rafaela; he said similar things at last year's All-Star Game as well, commending Rafaela's defensive prowess and versatility.
The Red Sox center fielder has only gotten better since then, and it'll be a landmark day in defensive history when both share the field in the Midsummer Classic. He may never be as impactful in every aspect of the game as Crow-Armstrong is, but Rafaela's stardom period has offically arrived, with apparently nothing to dislike.
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