3 Red Sox non-roster invitees that could make an impact in 2024

Boston Red Sox infield prospect Chase Meidroth

Chase Meidroth made quick work of High-A at the start of 2023. In 20 games, the right-handed hitter had a nearly .500 OBP (.495). His uncanny ability to get on base led to an early-season promotion.

Meidroth spent the rest of the season in Double-A. The infielder hit .255/.386/.375 with 16 doubles and seven home runs in 396 plate appearances. He drove in 43 runs, scored 59 more, and stole nine bases in 91 games. Meidroth kept his strikeouts down and his walks up in the process.

Meanwhile, the 22-year-old started to showcase his defensive prowess, appearing at second base, third base, and shortstop. It became a weekly routine to see a few web gems from Meidroth. He was making over-the-shoulder grabs, barehanding baseballs ricocheting off the third base bag, and throwing darts to first base.

The big knock on Meidroth is a lack of power in his swing. However, he even managed to show improvements there by the end of the season.

The question has always been: will the lack of power come back to hurt Meidroth? If pitchers aren't afraid to pitch to him, will he start to struggle? The walks will go down, and he won't be able to capitalize on pitches in the zone.

But we don't agree at all. Meidroth has phenomenal bat-to-ball skills. Yes, he's got a great eye, which leads to walks and favorable counts. But if pitchers start only throwing him pitches in the zone, he'll feast.

That's not to say Meidroth will suddenly become a 30-home run guy, but his batting average will likely be through the roof. He's an OBP beast who won't strike out and can play strong defense at multiple positions.

Don't be shocked if Meidroth starts the year in Triple-A (or right on the cusp). If things go well there, he could be a regularly used infield piece in the Major Leagues quickly (especially if injuries crop up).