Red Sox Prospect Report: Up and Down
On Thursday night the Boston Red Sox fell to the Minnesota Twins 9-8 in their Grapefruit League opener. This game was an interesting opportunity to get a look at a few prospects who have a shot at the roster. On Friday afternoon they also saw the debuts of several prospects for the spring.
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Noe Ramirez: Ramirez was the second pitcher to make an appearance in the Minnesota game. The 25 year old has a chance to crack the bullpen, but he only got a third of an inning pitched in this game so we didn’t get a great look at him. Joe Kelly struggled, and had to be pulled early, leading to Ramirez’s appearance. We will be seeing more of him.
Bryce Brentz: With the Red Sox crowded infield, there’s a chance Brentz is not in their plans. However, if he continues to make a good impression, he could be an asset. Brentz went 0-2 on Thursday night but did walk and score a run. His walk was on an eight pitch at bat 3-2 count that was a good show of his patience.
Jackie Bradley Jr: Does Bradley count as a prospect anymore? Probably not, and he will almost certainly not be on the Boston roster come opening day. Still, it was positive to see him hit a run scoring double in his first at bat as he drove the ball to the deepest part of JetBlue Park. In face he had two hits in the game. It’s wishful thinking, but maybe he’s turned a corner.
Matt Barnes: Barnes saw some big league time last season and the former first round pick has a shot at seeing roster time again. Barnes pitched two innings of scoreless baseball against Minnesota on Thursday night where he allowed just one hit and struck out three. The Connecticut native has looked shaky at times in the past, but it appears he’s arrived as a major league mature pitcher ready to get his shot.
Brian Johnson: Johnson was touched for the loss against Miami, and the left handed Pawtucket pitcher gave up a walk that turned into a run in his one inning of work. Johnson won’t be on the big club this season but is someone to watch going forward.
Henry Owens: Arguably the most anticipated prospect for Boston, Owens was rather sub par in his Grapefruit League debut for 2015 against the Miami Marlins. He looked good in his first inning, striking out two batters, before struggling in his second. Owens gave up three hits and two runs and struggled with his command at times.
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