Ending the 2022 season, the Red Sox had major question marks they needed to address needs within their clubhouse. With the departures of Xander Bogaerts, J.D. Martinez, and Nathan Eovaldi, the front office found themselves needing to find some replacements for the 2023 season.
This off-season the, Red Sox addressed some of their concerns with a Chaim Bloom approach to free agency. The Red Sox looked to add veteran leadership to their bullpen by signing former World Series champion, Kenley Jenson. Bloom and company added strength to their starting rotation acquiring the two-time Cy Young winner, Corey Kluber. In one of the most underrated signings, the Red Sox signed Justin Turner with hopes to serve as the team's Designated Hitter.
The Boston Red Sox will look to bounce back from their disappointing season last year. After, finishing in dead last with a record of 78-84, the Sox need to turn to some young assets in hopes of reviving themselves into playoff contention.
Let's get to some of the young ascending stars who have the potential to make an immediate impact on the starting lineup.
Red Sox bold prediction No. 1: Triston Casas will have over 20 home runs
Since 2015, the Red Sox have had five different starting first basemen. From Bobby Dalbec to Michael Chavis, it's safe to say the Red Sox have been searching for consistency at first base. The Sox have yet to find their franchise first basemen. A rotating piece of the lineup that has been a general concern to most Sox fans.
This leads me to the potential hero, Triston Casas. Casas has emerged onto spring training with a batting average of .327, 18 hits, nine RBIs, and three home runs. To top it off, Casas finished the game with a walk-off two-run home run against the Braves on March 24. In Casas's minor league tenure, he belted 46 home runs and had a batting average of .269. So, power is not a concern for the 6-foot-4 left-handed batter.
The Sox have high hopes for the 23-year-old first baseman. With, Casas being named to the 2023 starting lineup expect a big bat to boost the Red Sox offensively.