Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
The Boston Red Sox offense has been alarmingly inconsistent for the better part of this season. A huge reason for that has been the lack of production in right field. Shane Victorino has spent another year on the disabled list more often than not. Rusney Castillo was brought up for a few months and while he has shown flashes of brilliance, he has also shown that he needs a lot more baseball experience and is still a work in progress. As a result of these struggles, Boston recently called up Jackie Bradley Jr.
Without a doubt, Bradley is one of the best defensive outfielders in all of MLB. That has never been a question. The issue with Bradley is his lack of hitting at the major league level. If he could even hit about .240, his defense would more than make up the difference. Overall, though, bringing up Bradley was the right call because it is about time to see what you have with him once and for all.
Boston is falling out of contention and it does not look like there is going to be a postseason for this team. Now is the time to take a look at some younger players and just give them the opportunity. Victorino is a free agent next year and it is very unlikely that Boston is going to bring back a player who is so injury-prone. Bradley can be a difference-maker with his glove and that could make a significant impact on this team. Boston building toward the future is a very good idea and it starts with Bradley.
Bradley and Mookie Betts in the outfield could really be a dynamic pair.
Carter Roane is a Boston Red Sox writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter@CarterGRoane, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
