While the Boston Red Sox are preparing for an aggressive offseason on the MLB side of operations, it’s important to keep an eye on the farm system.
Alex Speier discussed a key minor league development Saturday morning, reporting that talented infield prospect Marcelo Mayer suffered an apparent setback in his recovery from a shoulder injury.
"Marcelo Mayer, who resumed swinging this fall in Fort Myers while rehabbing from a left shoulder impingement, is now home in California on a strength program and will be reevaluated after Thanksgiving. The Sox still expect Mayer’s injury won’t require surgery, and that he’ll be a full-go for spring training."Alex Speier
The tone of Speier’s report implies that the Red Sox aren’t overly concerned with Mayer’s status, and the fact that he should be a “full-go” for spring training is a great sign. Nevertheless, a setback of any type is cause for concern. Shoulder injuries, depending obviously on their exactly nature, can linger and/or worsen and are especially spooky for "twitchy" positions like the middle infield.
Mayer hasn’t played in a game since Aug. 3 with Double-A Portland. He was ultimately shut down for the remainder of the season, finishing 2023 with a .236/.306/.433 slash line and 13 homers. It wasn’t a particularly inspiring season for the former No. 4 overall pick as he had trouble adjusting to opposing pitchers’ advanced repertoires at the Double-A level.
Nevertheless, there’s no denying Mayer’s raw talent. He has previously demonstrated his impressive bat speed and ability to hit to all parts of the field. The 20-year-old is even flashier on defense, showcasing his smooth fielding actions, high-quality glove work, and big arm strength.
The Red Sox certainly hope that Mayer returns from his injury stronger and better than ever. 2024 could be a make-or-break season for the star prospect.