3 Chaim Bloom decisions that are saving the Red Sox right now

Chaim Bloom has a polarizing reputation among Boston Red Sox fans. Many pointed fingers at him as the root cause of the Red Sox's cheapness in recent seasons, while others acknowledged that he only worked with the resources ownership provided.

Most Red Sox fans have rightfully adjusted their vitriol toward John Henry and Fenway Sports Group's budget plan, but that hasn't exonerated Bloom in some fans' eyes.

Regardless, Bloom was a part of some decisions that are currently paying off for his former ballclub. From locking up Rafael Devers long-term to a few nifty trades, some of Bloom's moves have put the 2024 Sox in a better place than they were last year.

Some unexpected players have broken out in a big way this season, particularly during Boston's recent hot streak. Here are three players brought in by Bloom who have been difference-makers for the Sox.

3 Chaim Bloom decisions that are saving the Red Sox right now

Rob Refsnyder

Rob Refsnyder has been one of the most underrated Red Sox players across the board this season. The veteran served as an anchor in the lineup during Boston's heavily-injured stretch from late April into June, and he's gone mostly unheralded for his high-quality play.

Refsnyder arrived in Boston on a minor-league contract in 2021. He played 108 games for the Red Sox between 2021-22 before he was extended for the 2023-24 seasons without much fanfare. But his contract is paying off now.

Refsnyder is batting .322/.406/.483 with a .889 OPS over 47 games — his tenacious offense has enabled the Red Sox to give him more of an everyday role than he's held in previous years, and it's working. His road slash line — .380/.430/.646 — is the third-best in the league among players with as many at-bats as he's had.

The veteran's defense has also helped Boston through its injuries. He's split time between left and right field and done it with ease. His offensive production, defensive versatility and years of experience have helped the young Red Sox stay on their feet all season.

Wilyer Abreu

The Red Sox acquired Wilyer Abreu through the then-controversial Christian Vázquez trade with the Astros in 2022. Vázquez is a 2018 World Series champion and former fan-favorite, and Red Sox Nation wasn't keen on giving him up for prospects.

But Abreu has already paid dividends for Boston. He's been cold since his return from a sprained right ankle, but Abreu's rookie season has been among the best in the American League. He's slashing .260/.328/.464 with six homers and 22 RBI in 57 games.

Defensive versatility is also a big part of Abreu's game. He's fit in well with the Red Sox's other outfielders and his defense has brought a new level of play to Fenway's right field, in particular. He's logged two outs above average, six defensive runs saved and he owns 98th percentile arm strength.

Hopefully, Abreu can get hot at the plate again soon. The power he can bring would provide a nice boost for Boston's offense as it breaks for a playoff spot before the trade deadline.

David Hamilton

David Hamilton has posted a turnaround of epic proportions since he was called up to Boston on April 6. The infielder homered in his MLB debut, but his bat and defense stalled significantly soon after. Hamilton was at the center of the Red Sox's infield defense woes, but after some time on the bench and hard work, he's become a fixture of their lineup.

The Red Sox acquired Hamilton via trade from the Brewers in 2021. He, Jackie Bradley Jr. and Alex Binelas all came to Boston in exchange for Hunter Renfroe, who had a decent 2022 campaign but didn't live up to his first season with the Red Sox.

Hamilton is slashing .282/.333/.449 with five homers and a .782 OPS through 54 games. The rookie leads his squad in stolen bases with 21, including four during the Sox's record-breaking outing against the Yankees. He's logged negative three outs above average in the infield, but his defense has improved enough to earn a near-daily slot in the lineup.

Despite Bloom's reputation among parts of Red Sox Nation, he made some trades that served their purpose — they set Boston up for the future. Refsnyder, Abreu and Hamilton's all-around play have been key to the Red Sox's survival this season.

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