Tag Archives: Tristan Casas

The Future: Red Sox Top Minor League Prospects

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The future of the Red Sox appears to be in good hands with a collection of raw, high potential prospects in the minors. In light of the recent success from young players like Rafael Devers and Michael Chavis, here we look at the very best the Red Sox have left to offer in the minors.

1. Triston Casas

Age:19

Position: 1B/3B

Height: 6′ 4″

Weight: 240 lb.

Bat/Throw: L/R

While he is a bit far away from joining the big leagues, Casas has the potential to be a future All-Star regular for the Sox. This is clearly shown in the fact that he is currently ranked #90 on MLB top 100 prospects, and #4 on top 10 first basemen. He has won the U18 World Cup MVP honors, and the World Baseball Softball Confederation player of the year award in 2017. His greatest strength is his power, as he lead the U.S. U18 national team in homers and RBIs in both 2016 and 2017. He also has 17 homers in under 100 games in 2019, fueled by his size.

He also is a perfect man for the corners of the diamond, as his 90 mph pitching arm from his amateur days makes for a supreme defensive weapon. Combine that with his soft hands and strong conditioning, and he can be one of the best defenders on the field. His only clear downside to his game is his speed, but that isn’t enough to stop someone of his caliber from taking the league by storm.

2. Bryan Mata

Age: 20

Position: SP(righty)

Height: 6′ 3″

Weight: 160 lb.(listed, but he appears to be bigger now)

Bat/Throw: R/R

He has improved greatly since joining the Sox in 2016, and could get called up in the next year. With that being said, there are definitely a few issues to iron out. As he gets tired later in games, his release point can change and he overthrows pitches. This causes there to be an increased number of baserunners late in games. Usually, though, he tends to settle down and pitch himself out of those jams. He throws two types of fastballs, a four-seam at 94-96 mph, and two-seam at 91-93 mph. His four-seam can cap out at 98 mph, yet he is still improving it and needs to work on its command and control.

He also has recently added a 88 mph power slider, which is great at fooling batters, and can even occasionally morph into a cutter. His changeup ain’t to bad either. It averages 85 mph and fades at near perfect times. He could be a great mid to late rotation pitcher, or could even move to the bullpen. What is certain is that he is hardworking and in a position for success.

3. Bobby Dalbec

Age: 24

Position: 3B/1B

Height: 6′ 4″

Weight: 230 lb.

Bat/Throw: R/R

Another prospect who could be called up soon, Bobby Dalbec is ranked #8 on MLB’s Top 10 3B prospects, and for good reason. A player compared to that of Kris Bryant, Dalbec could be an everyday impact player for the Red Sox. He is a very similar prospect to Casas. They both aren’t the fastest players in the world, yet they have power and defensive prowess. In 2018,he displayed his power as he ranked second in extra-base hits (70) while also being fourth in homers (32). This year he has a solid 20 homers in under 100 games, and was called up to Pawtucket.

Also, like Casas, he has a powerful arm stemming from a prior pitching career. While a little stiff when fielding, he can potentially be a great fielder at third base. He shows some swing and miss concerns, which could prevent a call up until late next season. He overall looks like a solid prospect, and a player to keep on your radar for the future.

4. Jarren Duran

Age: 22

Position: OF

Height: 6′ 2″

Weight: 200 lb.

Bat/Throw: L/R

Duran is a player with a game comparable to an outfield version of Pedroia. Hitting wise, Duran utilizes a toe tap timing device with simple swing mechanics. He is aggressive and will attack early in the count, but can recognize spin and will take a walk. Looks to put the ball in play with hard line drives in all directions. Still improving his already good technique. He also may be the fastest prospect in the Sox organization. While he needs to refine basestealing instincts and reads on defense, he has the type of speed that puts immense pressure on the defense. He is so fast that on occasion defenses have not been able to throw him out on routine grounders. In 2019 he converted to center field from right field, where his previously spoken of speed grants him insane range. He has the clear athleticism teams covet for center field to go along with his speed.

He is not that strong of a player, which really shows in his hitting power and arm strength throwing the ball. Luckily that is not too hard of a fix ,as I expect that as he gains weight the strength will come as well. Keep an eye on this man as he could be an eventual improvement for Jackie Bradley Jr.,if JBJ doesn’t figure out his hitting.

5. Darwinzon Hernandez

Age: 22

Position: RP/SP

Height: 6′ 2″

Weight: 245 lb.

Bat/Throw: L/L

Damn this kid already looks like a stud for the Sox. And yes, he counts as a prospect despite the fact he is called up. Hernandez has impressed as arguably the best reliever option for the Red Sox this season, boasting a 2.03 ERA and 26 SO in 11 games this season. While he does walk a decent amount, it is a fare trade for not allowing a single homer yet. Control could be better, but his amazing mechanics should start to help once he gains more experience in the majors. His best pitch is easily his fastball, which maxes out at 97 mph. His fastball shows natural cut, with late life which jumps on hitters, especially left-handers. The pitch has shown the ability to overwhelm hitters, despite his control problems.

Hernandez’s curveball shows potential to be almost as great as his fastball. At its best it really snaps it off, showing depth and tight rotation. Unfortunately it is a bit inconsistent, and rolls slower at lower velocities when its at its worse. His 83-87 mph slider is also a treat. It can sometimes move like a cutter, and will flash a tight rotation and late bite. Sometimes it will also get loose when he doesn’t finish the pitch, which is a problem that could be be solved through simple practice. It doesn’t take a genius to see how good he could be, and how good he is already. Lets just hope Cora keeps giving him a chance through thick and thin, and not just toss Hernandez back to the minors like he did to Bobby Poyner.

Special mention to prospects Jay Groome(SP), Tanner Houck(SP/RP), and Thad Ward(SP), who didn’t crack this list.

Featured image via Bill’s Sports Maps

Comparing The 2003 Red Sox to The 2018 Red Sox

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While nearly 15 years has separated these two teams, there are a lot of similarities between them. With what appears to be two different ages of baseball, what can we take away from the ages?

The opening day lineups.

In 2003, The opening day lineup looked like this. 1. Johnny Damon CF, 2. Todd Walker 2B, 3. Nomar Garciaparra SS, 4. Manny Ramirez LF, 5. Kevin Millar 1B, 6. Shea Hillenbrand 3B, 7. Jeremy Giambi DH, 8. Trot Nixon RF, 9. Jason Varitek C Starting Pitcher Pedro Martinez.

This lineup had it all.  They had key veteran players to build around. They had speed, raw power, and most of all talent. This team was poised to make a deep October run until the rival Yankees ended it on a sour note. The 2004 team would eventually reverse the 86 year long drought. After that “The Curse of The Great Bambino” was over.

This season, the Opening Day lineup consisted of 1. Mookie Betts RF, 2. Andrew Benintendi LF, 3. Hanley Ramirez 1B ( not on the team anymore.) 4. J.D Martinez DH, 5. Xander Bogaerts SS, 6. Rafael Devers 3B, 7. Eduardo Nunez 2B, 8. Jackie Bradley Jr. CF, 9. Christian Vazquez C. Starting Pitcher Chris Sale. 

The Similarities.

This team also has raw power and speed. Their ace Chris Sale is most comparable to Pedro Martinez in his intensity and competitiveness. Both teams had a multitude of different ways to scare opponents offensively.

By the numbers: Both teams led the league in runs batted in, hits, OPS, total bases, and extra base hits. Both teams were leading their division up to this point in the season (2018 season isn’t 100% over yet). These teams were offensive power houses that American League teams were scared to pitch against.

Both teams provided some serious defense as well. It wasn’t always about amazing run support. The pair of teams had a stud patrolling in right field (2018 Betts, 2003 Nixon). Both teams had a perennial shortstop (Bogaerts, Garciaparra). Both teams had a highly regarded designated hitter (Martinez, Giambi). Finally, both teams made a very questionable move during the season (2018 cutting Hanley, 2003 signing David Ortiz).

In both cases they had their first seasons with an incredible duo. After the signing of David Ortiz to pair with Ramirez the tandem would go on to ravage pitchers for years. Most would regard the two as the best 3 and 4 hitter combo of all time. In 2018, the J.D and Mookie combo offers hope of a new duo equal to that of the deadly 2003 pair. Offering up a different approach to the game, this duo can hit, work the count, and launch home runs with the best of them.

Some differences that should be highlighted.

One of the biggest differences were the managers. Grady little led the team in 2003. After a controversial ending to their season he was heavily blamed for not cruising by the Yankees. This led to his timely firing by Theo Epstein and company. Which led to the hiring of legendary manager Terry Francona.

In 2018 the Red Sox are led by Alex Cora, the former bench coach of the defending World Series Champion Houston Astros. He is way ahead of his time. In implementing his system, his bench coaches and assistants utilize new forms of measurements in the game. Using new revelations such as: launch angle, statcast, war, and other forms of saber metrics. He is one of the main reasons why this 2018 team is on the verge of making history.

Comparing managers and General managers.

As for the general managers, they too take separate approaches. Theo was a free agent build type of guy, along with an incredible farm system. That’s how he also made the Chicago Cubs a world series champion. He is also one of the youngest general managers to win a World Series, as well.

On the other hand, Dave Dombrowski also has a winning approach. Dombrowski arrived after the departure of former GM Ben Cherington. He built the franchise into a winning culture in a matter of two seasons. While most people note the demolition of the farm system, it is slowly building itself back up with great draft additions such as Tristan Casas. Dave has also won a title with the then Florida Marlins, who now are called the Miami Marlins.

Even the fact that it seems like a different era of baseball is very prevalent. Pitchers are throwing harder, while also not staying in the game as long as they used to. Guys like Nolan Ryan and Greg Maddox were pitching a lot more innings a season.

The MLB commissioner office seems like it is always trying to speed up the game, while not being as concerned with more pressing matters such as PEDs and off the field incidents. As long as the commissioner can stay focused on the most important matters the sport can continue to grow and be more fun for generations to come.

Conclusion.

While both teams are strikingly similar, the differences stand out well. The 2018 team is more aggressive on the base paths, and are much faster. That comes with the evolution of the game. This team is also a lot younger than Red Sox teams of years past. This 2018 team looks very hungry, but hopefully the outcome will differ from the fate of the 2003 team.

While the 2018 season is still heating up, how it will be written among the other Red Sox teams will soon come into fruition. Keep it here for the best coverage of all your favorite Boston teams and players. Only at Bostonsportsextra.com

The Craig Kimbrel Conundrum

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A depleted farm system, a costly contract among the horizon, what do the Red Sox do about Craig Kimbrel?

With this being the last year before free agency, Where do the crossroads line up for Craig Kimbrel? The all star closer is in line for a huge payday potentially earning over $100 million contract. This could go down one of three ways: 1. Sign him in hopes of a team discount/ pay what he wants. 2. Trade him at the deadline to get something out of him. 3. he walks on his own. Either way, The Red Sox need to act fast.

Let’s say the team offers him a friendly 4 year/ $80 million contract as a team friendly deal. He could either gladly accept, or demand more money than fellow closer Alroldis Chapman who got his 5 year $82 million contract almost two years ago. He is a fastball dominant pitcher, meaning without that there’s not a lot of wiggle room to be above par. Sure, his knuckle curve is a great set up pitch, but you’re not throwing that three to four times an at bat.

Our second option is a pill swallower: trade one of the best closers in the league. This one would hurt, but it could address one of our biggest holes. THE FARM SYSTEM!!!!!! With only two prospect in the top 100 ( Chavis- ped suspension) ( Groome- Tommy John surgery) the farm system is depleted. Along with first round pick Tristan Casas, there’s not much going on at the moment. This could be the trade to get a package that consists of a bullpen arm and a prospect or two.  You can’t go wrong with that if there’s little to no help on an extension.

This idea also keeps money on the table for future extensions ( Betts, Sale, Benintendi< Bogaerts) While keeping the team in the witch hunt for Bryce Harper. With various other teams sure to be in on him.

The worse case scenario: He walks on his own terms with nothing gained for the Red Sox.

In this scenario, the team not only loses out on a closer, but misses out on a chance to gain something for his services. The club needs to look into every avenue before trying their luck in free agency. Anything can happen, it is a business. With that being said, they have to keep everything an open possibility. Even if it becomes a negative move from the fans perspective.

 

 

Boston Red Sox Select Triston Casas in the First Round

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With the 26th pick in the MLB Draft, the Boston Red Sox selected third baseman Triston Casas. Casas attended American Heritage High School in Florida, and will most likely sign with the Sox barring his commitment to the University of Miami. The 6′ 4″, 238 pound corner infielder has a comparison to Sean Casey and Freddie Freeman with his advanced barrel skills and ability to square up on pitches.

The Good:

Triston Casas was born in Pembroke Pines, Florida. The 18-year-old has a tall and athletic build, which is perfect for a first baseman that can contribute both offensively and defensively. However, he has proven to make strong throws while on the move, as a third baseman does regularly. Casas won the Richard W. “Dick” award in 2017 (given annually to USA Baseball’s top player), and seems to have a bright future ahead of him. Triston also has a major league approach during BP, which is a plus. Casas has a 95 mph exit velocity average and ranks in the 99.3 percentile among his draft class. Best of all, he has shown ability to hit the ball to all fields with ease. Overall, he is a kid with a lot of power, and will only continue to gain muscle mass and improve on his contact abilities.

The Not So Good:

Although Casas has shown he is a good hitter, he has also portrayed a bit of streakiness in his young career. He does have some areas in his swing to improve on, such as occasionally falling off to the side on his follow through. The most troubling thing that sticks out to me is that he had knee surgery performed in December of 2016 (x-ray shots below). This could be an injury prone thing, or it could be nothing to worry about. Power swinging players generate a lot of torque especially in their knees, so this should be something to keep an eye on in the future.

KneeFront12-26-2016KneeClose12-26-2016

Wrapping up on Casas:

Overall, I think this kid could be something special. With the recent trouble that the Sox have had with corner infielders (Sandoval, Hanley, Chavis of the likes), this is a great move by the Sox organization.

@ELJGON

Photo Credits: http://tristonraycasas.com/bio/ & USA Today