Pink Sox rookie Ceddanne Rafaela has been an entertaining participant to look at for Boston, however he hasn’t been referenced sufficient within the MLB Rookie of the 12 months chit-chatter.
Rafaela’s protection has been massive to the Pink Sox this week at shortstop, making performs look simple. On Thursday night time, Rafaela made a play that stopped Athletics infielder Zack Gelof from working out a grounder to shortstop — flexing his vary and arm.
With a fast scoop, Rafaela made a leaping throw proper on course to make the night time simpler for Pink Sox beginning pitcher Tanner Houck.
The 23-year-old not solely appears to be like spectacular at shortstop but in addition in centerfield. He has performed 55 video games within the outfield, 46 at shortstop and 4 at third base. Rafaela has confirmed his versatility when taking part in all three positions.
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“The child, he’s actually good,” Cora informed reporters, per NESN’s postgame protection. “I’m shocked individuals are not speaking about him within the dialog of Rookie of the 12 months as a result of what he’s carried out all through the season is superb. Enjoying elite protection in centerfield. Enjoying nice protection at shortstop.”
On prime of his protection, Rafaela’s bat has began to grow to be extra constant for the Pink Sox.
In April, his batting common dipped under .160, hitting .154 at one level. Beginning on the finish of Could, Rafaela discovered extra consistency in his at-bats. Now, he’s hitting .246 with 56 RBIs and 13 residence runs.
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“Offensively he began sluggish average-wise, however he’s been constant in each side,” Cora mentioned. “He’s getting higher. He places on good at-bats at the moment and the rationale the place we’re the place we’re at is as a result of the flexibility of our roster.”
Rafaela and the Pink Sox have yet one more sequence earlier than the All-Star break, taking over the Kansas Metropolis Royals beginning on Friday. First pitch is ready for 7:10 p.m. ET at Fenway Park will all recreation protection on NESN.