Following Justin Turner’s departure, the widespread assumption was that outfielder Masataka Yoshida would go into the season because the Red Sox major designated hitter.
Speaking to reporters Tuesday in Fort Myers, supervisor Alex Cora confirmed that would be the case.
“Masa,” Cora stated when requested who will primarily play the place. “I’m not saying he’s the DH but he will get the most at bats at that position.”
Cora stated the Red Sox outfield alignment stays unsettled, however with the two-time Gold Glove winner Tyler O’Neill within the fold and no full-time DH on the roster, shifting Yoshida into the spot makes logical sense. Yoshida was amongst MLB’s worst defensive outfielders in 2023, rating solely 2nd percentile in fielding run worth based on Statcast, however he was among the many membership’s most efficient hitters regardless of the arduous adjustment shifting from Japan’s skilled league to MLB.
The Red Sox have up to now handed on including any further bats who may have stuffed the DH function. Former Miami Marlins slugger Jorge Soler reportedly signed with the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday morning, and ex-Red Sox outfielder Adam Duvall stays a free agent.
Entering spring coaching Boston’s outfield initiatives as O’Neill in left area, Jarren Duran in middle and rookie Wilyer Abreu in proper with Rob Refsnyder coming off the bench, however Cora stated Ceddanne Rafaela could have a possibility to compete for a spot as effectively. If he makes the crew he could be the membership’s middle fielder, Cora stated, however no matter how the spring performs out he’s optimistic in regards to the group and it’s potential.
“We’re going to be dynamic, we’re going to be more athletic in the outfield and hopefully that translates into wins,” Cora stated.
Source: www.bostonherald.com