In case you haven’t noticed, the Boston Red Sox aren’t exactly having the most ideal season. And by that, I mean they’re 38-47, and 8.5 games out of first place in the AL East. Is it possible to overcome that deficit? Sure. But the way Boston has played all season long, it’s hard to find any hope of optimism for them to do so.
Now, while there may not be too much optimism at Fenway Park, you could probably find some at McCoy Stadium in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. That’s the home of the Pawtucket Red Sox, Boston’s AAA team. While the players in the majors have been relatively cold, quite the opposite has been going on in Pawtucket. With this season looking like it’s going to be a waste for the Red Sox, is it time to go out with the old, and in with the new?
Let’s say Boston plans to go that route. A youth wave hits Boston, and any veteran player not playing up to their salary has suddenly been put on watch. What’s the first position to go? Catcher.
Let’s take a quick look at what’s going on in the majors with Boston’s starting catcher, A.J. Pierzynski. A.J., 37, was signed to a one-year deal before the start of this season. A veteran catcher who has a long track record of success, Pierzynski was viewed as a solid replacement for Jarrod Saltalamachia who signed with the Marlins.
Through 69 games, Pierzynski has developed into a liability at the plate. A .257 batting average, but only a .290 on-base-percentage. He’s barely walking at all, and his swing-and-miss rate is incredible (40 strikeouts already). On top of this, he’s only hit 4 home runs on the year. While he wasn’t expected to come in as a power threat, 4 home runs is just simply a disappointment.
It’s easy to call out Pierzynski for his problems, but is there an easy fix? Actually, there is, and he’s currently playing for the aforementioned Pawtucket Red Sox.
That’s right, it’s time to call up Christian Vazquez to the major league squad. He was recently named to the International League All-Star Squad, and has excelled at his position this summer. Hitting .275 with 3 home runs and 19 runs batted in aren’t incredible offensive stats, he’s one of the best defensive catchers around. He has an incredible arm when throwing to second, and is improving at blocking balls in the dirt. His bat may not be exactly MLB ready, but his glove is more than ready.
With teammates Garin Cechini and Mookie Betts all making their major league debuts recently, it’s not out of the question to think that Vazquez’ isn’t too far away. Besides, does Boston really have anything to lose at this point?