Red Sox Fan Favorite Forcing Way Onto MLB Roster With Impressive Spring Training Play
Opening Day is just about two weeks away.
The Boston Red Sox notably struggled in 2022 and finished in last place in the American League East at 78-84. Boston had a busy offseason, to say the least, and there will be plenty of new faces taking the field at Fenway Park in 2023.
One familiar face whose role with the 2023 Red Sox is in flux certainly is first baseman, Bobby Dalbec. The hulking infielder has shown flashes of brilliance at the big league level but has been extremely inconsistent in his two full seasons in Boston. Top first base prospect Triston Casas is in line to take over the position in 2023, leading many to wonder if Dalbec would remain with the club.
Trade rumors swirled around Dalbec all offseason, but the Red Sox never were able to come to terms on any deal. He is just 27 years old and certainly still could have a bright future. Dalbec has made the most of his extended opportunity in spring training so far and certainly is making the team's decision about his future more difficult.
While it's certainly still possible that he could be traded at some point, Dalbec is forcing the team's hand on keeping him on the roster for the 2023 campaign in a utility bench role. Dalbec has played all over the diamond for Boston so far in spring and has seen time at first base, shortstop, and third base. He even has practiced a bit at second base.
Dalbec's offensive numbers have been extremely impressive as well. In 12 games, Dalbec is slashing .323/.400/6.13 to go along with one home run, four doubles, one triple, four RBIs, and four walks. The slugger is mainly known for his power but has shown a knack for getting on base that he previously hadn't much.
With Casas in line to play first base, Enrique Hernandez set to be the team's shortstop, and Rafael Devers manning third base, there isn't an open spot in the starting lineup for Dalbec. But he at least has shown this spring that he is worth a spot on the team's active roster and could help the team out. If he continues to shine, maybe Boston eventually deals him to a team where he can have a bigger role. Until that day though, he should be on the Red Sox's roster and can help them out.
More MLB: Intriguing Red Sox Outfielder Absolutely Mashes His First Home Run Of World Baseball Classic
