Hey guys, I have some exciting news to share with you all! The Boston Red Sox have just signed Bradley Zimmer to their team. Zimmer is a talented outfielder who has previously played for the Cleveland Indians and boasts an impressive minor league career. With his speed, athleticism, and strong defensive abilities, Zimmer is sure to bring some much-needed talent to the Red Sox outfield. I can’t wait to see what he brings to the team this season!
Introduction
The Boston Red Sox have made a big move by signing outfielder Bradley Zimmer. The 28-year-old was released by the Cleveland Indians earlier this year and has found a new home in Boston. Zimmer is known for his impressive defense and speed on the bases, and he could provide a much-needed boost to the Red Sox lineup.
Background
Bradley Zimmer was born on November 27, 1992, in La Jolla, California. He attended La Jolla High School, where he was a standout athlete in both baseball and football. He was a top prospect in the 2011 MLB Draft, but he elected to attend the University of San Francisco instead of signing with the Chicago Cubs, who had drafted him in the 23rd round.
Zimmer’s college career was impressive, and he was once again a top prospect in the 2014 MLB Draft. This time, he was selected by the Cleveland Indians with the 21st overall pick. After spending a few seasons in the minors, Zimmer made his major league debut on May 16, 2017.
MLB Career
Zimmer’s major league career got off to a promising start. In his debut season, he played in 101 games and hit .241 with a .307 on-base percentage. He also hit eight home runs and stole 18 bases. However, his production took a dip in 2018 when he hit just .226 with a .281 on-base percentage and two home runs in 34 games.
Injuries have been a major factor in Zimmer’s career. He missed most of the 2019 season due to shoulder surgery, and he was limited to just 11 games in 2020 due to a rib injury and the shortened season. He was ultimately released by the Indians on March 26, 2021.
Defense
Zimmer’s defense is what sets him apart from other outfielders. He has excellent range and a strong arm, and he is capable of making highlight-reel plays on a regular basis. His defensive metrics are also impressive. In 2017, he had a defensive runs saved (DRS) of 15, which led all American League outfielders. He followed that up with a DRS of six in 2018 despite playing in just 34 games.
Speed on the Bases
Zimmer’s speed is another asset that he brings to the Red Sox. He has good instincts on the bases and is a threat to steal every time he gets on. In his rookie season, he stole 18 bases in 101 games. He was caught stealing just four times, giving him a success rate of 81.8%. He also has good range in the outfield, which makes him valuable as a pinch-runner or defensive replacement.
Offense
Zimmer’s offensive production has been inconsistent throughout his career. In his first full season in 2017, he hit .241 with a .307 on-base percentage and eight home runs. In 2018, he struggled at the plate, hitting just .226 with a .281 on-base percentage and two home runs in 34 games. In limited action in 2020, he hit .162 with a .238 on-base percentage and one home run.
Zimmer’s strikeouts have been a major issue throughout his career. In 2017, he struck out in 30.9% of his plate appearances, and that number increased to 36.8% in 2018. He showed some improvement in 2020, striking out in 26.5% of his plate appearances, but that is still a high rate.
What He Brings To The Red Sox
The Red Sox have been in dire need of outfield help, especially after losing Andrew Benintendi in a trade with the Kansas City Royals. Zimmer’s defense and speed on the bases make him a valuable addition to the team. He is also capable of playing all three outfield positions, which gives the Red Sox some flexibility in their lineup.
Zimmer’s offensive production is a question mark, but he has shown flashes of potential in the past. If he can cut down on his strikeouts and improve his on-base percentage, he could be a solid contributor to the Red Sox lineup.
Conclusion
The Red Sox have made a smart move by signing Bradley Zimmer. His defense and speed on the bases make him a valuable asset to the team, and he could provide a much-needed boost to the outfield. If he can improve his offensive production, he could become a fan favorite in Boston. Only time will tell how he will fit in with the team, but the Red Sox are hoping that he will help lead them back to the playoffs.
