Boston Red Sox end Franchy Cordero Era

The Boston Red Sox made an interesting three team deal in the offseason, sending Andrew Benintendi to the Royals for a package of players that included toolsy outfielder Franchy Cordero. While Benintendi appeared to be slipping, the hope was that Cordero would finally reach his potential, with a different voice and approach allowing those tools to manifest during game action.

That was not to be the case. Now, after one season in Boston, his time is over as the Red Sox have designated Cordero for assignment.

Boston Red Sox move on from Franchy Cordero

The Red Sox certainly gave him an opportunity. Although he appeared in just 48 games, that is the most action he has received in the majors to this point of his career. However, he did not do much with that opportunity, posting a 32 OPS+ in his 136 plate appearances, hitting six doubles and a homer while drawing eight walks and striking out 51 times.

Those strikeouts have been the biggest reason why Cordero has not been able to unlock his potential. He has struck out at a 35.7% clip over the course of his career, failing the make the consistent contact necessary for his raw power and speed to be able to manifest.

It is entirely possible that another team will put in a claim on Cordero, or look to sign him as a minor league free agent. He has crushed Triple-A pitching over the course of his career, showing his tantalizing blend of power and speed. Cordero is also just 27 years old, so he does have time to develop into those tools.

But that time is starting to run out. Cordero’s tools will only intrigue for so long before the results have to be there. That was the case with the Red Sox, as they could no longer afford to give him a roster spot. Now he can be a project for another team.

The Franchy Cordero era is over. The Boston Red Sox have decided to move on from the toolsy, but maddeningly inconsistent, outfielder.