Red Sox Lock Up Another Young Star
Photo via Steven Senne
After the Red Sox agreed to terms with young starter and blossoming ace, Brayan Bello, they look to lock up another blooming star. Ceddanne Rafaela who has burst onto the seen as a guy the sox like. Earning the starting Centerfield position out of spring training this year many were excited to see what he could turn into. Earlier today Mark Feinsand reported that Rafaela and the Red Sox agreed to a contract of 8-years $50 million, which locks him up at least until 2031.
During his first 10 games this season Rafaela is slashing .233/.286/.400 which is good for an .686 OPS (On-Base + Slugging). Although these are not outrageous offensive numbers the Red Sox really like Rafaela’s glove in center. His glove is top tier and will definitely be in the running for a gold or even platinum glove in his career. Rafaela provides a sort of spark to the Red Sox and it’s been present so far this season. Another thing that helps his game in all aspects is his speed. According to Baseball Savant he ranks 85th percentile in sprint speed which is above average. During opening day, he showed his spark and speed with a triple late in the game to take home the victory. With the possibility of being a 5 tool player Rafaela offers major upside to this Red Sox lineup. The more opportunities and at bats Rafaela gets the better his hit tool will be and he could very well grow into the future of the Red Sox. With Bello, Devers, and now Rafaela the Red Sox look to take after the Atlanta Braves and keep their young stars locked up for their primes. The next name up on the Red Sox list should be Triston Casas and then the Sox will have a formidable core as they look towards the future. Rafaela looks to take this contract in stride as he prepares for Red Sox Opening Day at Fenway Park on Tuesday April 9th.