Boston Red Sox make needed move with Franchy Cordero

The Boston Red Sox lineup has been one of the best in baseball to start the year. They lead the American League in runs scored and OPS, while ranking in the top five in virtually every important offensive category. However, there are holes in the lineup, particularly in left field, where Franchy Cordero has been a disappointment.

The Red Sox finally did something about that on Thursday. Cordero was optioned down to Triple-A, leaving an opening on the roster although Boston has yet to call someone up to fill that spot.

Boston Red Sox had to do something about left field

Cordero has long tantalized with his raw tools and potential. His impressive power and excellent speed have given several teams the hope that he could blossom into a star if he could put everything together.

Even though the Red Sox had given him every opportunity, Cordero has continued to disappoint. He produced a meager .179/.228/.274 batting line in his 102 plate appearances, striking out 37 times. Despite his power potential and excellent speed, he hit just one homer and stole one base.

It is notable that the Red Sox have yet to announce his replacement. Although they are likely to bring up an extra arm for the bullpen, this will do nothing to quiet the clamor for prospect Jarren Duran. He had hit his way into the consciousness of the fan base in spring training, and his impressive homers at Triple-A have done nothing to slow down the hype train. However, such a promotion is not likely, at least for now. Duran is part of the Team USA Olympic Qualifying roster and will likely not be brought up until their run is over.

Meanwhile, it does not help matters that the player Cordero replaced in left is having a resurgence elsewhere. Andrew Benintendi had been a disappointment over the previous two seasons in Boston, but has found himself again in Kansas City. Cordero was part of the trade to send the former building block out of town, which only adds to the spotlight on his struggles.

The Boston Red Sox needed to do something in left field. Sending Franchy Cordero down to Triple-A is a good start to addressing the position.