3 Red Sox non-roster invitees that could make an impact in 2024
By Hunter Noll
Boston Red Sox catching prospect Stephen Scott
Catcher Stephen Scott is in a weird position with the Red Sox. They already have Connor Wong and Reese McGuire in the Majors. Meanwhile, there are a few players not far behind him who are viewed much more favorably as prospects (most notably Nathan Hickey and Kyle Teel).
Beyond that, there are reasons for the Red Sox to go with other options. Roberto Pérez has plenty of MLB experience and is a great defensive catcher. Scott, on the other hand, struggles with his defense. However, let's argue his case.
Scott is relatively new to catching full-time. The 26-year-old appeared in just 19 MiLB games at catcher before 2022. He then made 67 appearances at the position that season and 62 more in 2023.
While his defense isn't great, there are positive signs. He's shown improvements, and with such little work behind the plate, it's not wild to think he could continue to get better.
Then there's his offense. The left-handed hitter batted .235/.350/.462 with 16 doubles, two triples, and 19 home runs in 403 plate appearances between Double-A and Triple-A last season. He drove in 66 runs, scored 59 more, and stole six bases in 100 games.
Scott doesn't strike out much, works counts, gets on base, and hits for power. He's a complete offensive threat who is slowly improving behind the plate.
If the Red Sox need a longer-term solution at catcher in 2024 (a serious injury or a trade/release), they might turn to Scott to help boost the offense while they wait for Teel to arrive.