2) Red Sox outfielder Rob Refsnyder proved his cold spring was a fluke
Rob Refsnyder had a much different spring than Triston Casas. The Red Sox knew better than to rely on those numbers for what Refsnyder could give them. In 177 trips to the plate in 2022, Refsnyder hammered 6 home runs while slashing .307/.384/.497.
There may have been a few doubts about what he would do in year two in Boston. After all, Refsnyder has been a journeyman over the last few seasons. He was only 8 for 44 in the spring. His slash line was a measly .182/.345/.318.
Refsnyder has exceeded expectations and even earned himself an extension through at least 2024 with an option for 2025. How did he do this?
After 125 plate appearances, Refsnyder is hitting .280/.419/.380 with a homer and 21 RBI. He has become regular in left field while also giving the team innings at the other two outfield positions. In the absence of Adam Duvall, he has proven his value as a part-time player capable of stepping in and doing a little bit more.
It’s players like Refsnyder who tend to have one of those big moments when the lights shine brightest. Whether he ends up with a big catch against the Big Green Monster, a clutch hit down the stretch, or just happens to be the guy who beats out a potential inning end double play that begins a rally, Refsnyder seems to have the intangibles Red Sox fans love to see.