The Red Sox are a series into the 2013 season and hold a 2-1 record, tied with the Orioles for first place in the division. Jose Iglesias is 7 for 12 at the plate with 1 double and 1 RBI while showing excellent defense at shortstop. Jackie Bradley Junior 2 for 10 at the plate with 1 double, 3 RBIs, 3 walks, and 4 runs.
Of course, this is a small sample-size of the season; three games is really nothing. But, it does raise the question of what will transpire throughout the year in regards to Jose Iglesias and Jackie Bradley Junior. The thought is Iglesias will be sent to Pawtucket when Drew comes off the disabled list, probably next week sometime. JBJ will be sent down when Ortiz comes back, which is anywhere from 3-5 weeks, depending on the source (for his part, Ortiz is saying he’ll be back in about 3 weeks).
I understand the mentality of sending these player down to Triple-A; it gives them a chance to play everyday. But, will this make the Red Sox a better team? Here are my thoughts.
I’ve already predicted that Drew will be traded at some point during the season. I’m not knocking Drew and his talents because I think he is an average to slightly-above-average shortstop, something the Sox need. But, I think Iglesias’ glove is too good to keep in Triple-A for the entire season. Plus, the Sox may be able to get a piece they can utilize better with a Drew trade (prospects, starting pitching depth).
Iglesias, for his part, has really made an impact with his bat these past couple games. In the past two seasons, Iglesias was 10 of 74 (.135 average), so it wasn’t a huge question why the Red Sox signed Drew. However, Iglesias has said he had really been working on his hitting this offseason. If these past few games are any indicator, it’s showing.
Jackie Bradley Junior is a little different case, in my opinion. Essentially, JBJ is taking Ortiz’s spot in the roster. While Ortiz is out, the Sox have the option of a rotating DH, where they can match up hitters with pitchers and give players a rest when they need it. But, Ortiz, when healthy, is one of the best hitters in the game. When he comes back to the team, a roster move needs to be made.
Unfortunately, I think that means sending JBJ to Triple-A, where he can play everyday. It’ll also give the Red Sox the luxury have JBJ play twenty consecutive games in the minors, which will allow the team to have him under control through 2019 (instead of 2018, if the Sox were to keep him in the Majors). Should the Red Sox really be thinking about 2018 and 2019 when their team has been sinking the past two seasons?
In the case of JBJ, I think you have to send him to Triple-A. Really, the only other option would be to send Nava to Triple-A after Ortiz comes off the disabled list, and Nava provides depth in both the outfield and first base. JBJ is an outfielder only.
Honestly, I think the team is best when Iglesias is on the field; he should be on the Major League team for his bat alone. JBJ, while exciting and provides some speed, could use some time in Triple-A, especially since he has never played at Triple-A (he was in Single and Double A last season). Ortiz is our “monster hitter;” and hopefully when healthy again, he’ll be mashing the ball.
It’s been exciting to watch these two players so far this season; it’s giving the fans a glimpse into the future when the roster will consist of Iglesias, JBJ, Middlebrooks, and Lavarnway. These are the players that will draw the fans back to Fenway, even if it isn’t until later this season or next season.
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