Enmanuel Valdez - Debut and Analysis

As a new writer for Simple Minds I was really excited to be able to watch a game and look at the first game of #17 prospect of the Red Sox. A player traded for Christian Vazquez last year.

That said, let’s see a scouting report. It’s a little interesting. Keep in mind, it’s said he’s only here for a cup of coffee at the moment. But this infield did need spark. Even though this lineup definitely needs a righty in there. This is too lefty heavy. And the righties are Kike, an aged Turner, Refsynder, Wong, and Chang. None are intimidating at the plate for the most part.

Hitting and power the same!? I like that. But don't let the position part fool anyone. He's a 2nd baseman. They tried fooling around with 3rd and Left. His arm strength is concerning. They say it's “fringey” for 2nd Base. Let alone 3rd base (Devers position anyway) and Left Field. That said, it's 2nd Base. Period.

Valdez had two ground balls hit to the left side of the infield beating that partial shift between thr shortstop and third baseman. Both to the outfield grass off of Joe Ryan. Then nothing off his two at-bats against Brent Headrick also making his debut.

Defensively there are two blunders. The ground ball that tipped off the glove of Casas. Not his fault. Then there is that pop-up where he’s arguably in the space of Verdugo.

It’s probably gitters. His father is a Red Sox fan and he did his part. It’s only one game. But of its giving a kid a chance to boost his confidence, let’s give it a little bit. And if he helps others a spark to have them earn their keep Kike 11 for his last 26 which is .423) then why not?