In the 2023 Red Sox Positional Preview, expectations are high for Alex Verdugo as he starts in right field. This young player has shown great potential since his arrival in Boston, and fans are eager to see him continue to develop his skills in the outfield. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at his performance so far and what we can expect from Verdugo in the upcoming season.
Introduction
As the Red Sox head into the 2023 season, they will have a new look in the outfield. Alex Verdugo will be expected to start in right field, and his performance will be key to the team’s success. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Verdugo and what he brings to the table as a right fielder.
Who is Alex Verdugo?
Verdugo was acquired by the Red Sox in a trade with the Dodgers prior to the 2020 season. He is a left-handed hitter who has shown the ability to hit for average and power throughout his minor league and major league career. Verdugo is also a solid defensive outfielder that can play all three outfield positions.
Offensive Production
Verdugo has shown steady improvement in his offensive game each year he has played. In 2021, he hit .283 with 17 home runs and 57 RBI. Those numbers were a significant improvement over his 2020 season, where he hit just .308 with six home runs and 15 RBI. The Red Sox will be looking for Verdugo to continue that upward trend in his offensive production.
Defensive Abilities
One of the strengths of Verdugo’s game is his solid defense in the outfield. He has the ability to play all three outfield positions, but his natural position is in right field. In 2021, Verdugo was credited with five defensive runs saved (DRS) in right field, which was tied for fourth-best among all American League right fielders. It’s an important aspect of his game that will be vital to the team’s success.
Expected Playing Time
With the departure of several key outfielders, including Hunter Renfroe and Kyle Schwarber, Verdugo is expected to be the everyday starter in right field for the Red Sox in 2023. He will join Andrew Benintendi and Jarren Duran in the outfield as the team looks to solidify their outfield defense.
Impact on the Team
Verdugo’s role as the starting right fielder for the Red Sox will be a significant one, and his production both at the plate and in the field will be critical to the success of the team. His ability to hit for average and power, as well as play solid defense in right field, will be an important factor in the success of the team.
Conclusion
The Red Sox are counting on Alex Verdugo to be their starting right fielder in 2023, and for good reason. He has shown the ability to hit for average and power and play solid defense, which will be critical to the team’s success. If Verdugo continues to improve his game, he could be one of the top right fielders in the league.
