The Boston Red Sox have two rookies in the conversation for the American League Rookie of the Year award. They've both posted standout first seasons, but Ceddanne Rafaela may be separating himself from the competition.
The young center fielder/shortstop brings unmatched versatility to Boston's lineup and highlight-reel defense to both his positions. His latest spectacular play has fans across the league paying attention.
In the third inning of a one-run game against the Astros on Aug. 20, Yainer Diaz bounced a ground ball to Rafaela at shortstop. He ranged toward Rafael Devers at third base to meet it and performed a textbook jump throw to Triston Casas at first base.
Casas lunged and fielded the ball on his stomach to secure the tag. The two young infielders have combined for a few quality plays since Casas' return to action, but Rafaela's midair throw has earned him some deserved hype.
Ceddanne Rafaela's jump throw has Red Sox fans chirping Derek Jeter
Ceddanne Rafaela with the jump throw! 😮 pic.twitter.com/Eyx38h6beV
— MLB (@MLB) August 21, 2024
Rafaela's toss is strikingly similar to Derek Jeter's jump throw delivery, and Sox fans have taken to social media to share their thoughts. Some compared him to the legendary rival shortstop, others called him even better than No. 2.
While such an assertion is premature, Rafeala is well on his way to excellent defense at shortstop and center field. The 23-year-old has also earned comparisons to Jackie Bradley Jr. — for his many diving catches and robberies in the pastures.
The Red Sox locked Rafaela up for years to come after he signed an eight-year deal in April. Sox and Yankees fans will have years to argue about his status compared to Jeter, but since Rafaela is making Jeter-esque plays in his rookie season, Red Sox Nation may have a real argument soon.