As the Boston Red Sox ended their playoff drought in 2021 as they surpassed expectations. Boston was able to rely on homegrown talent and veteran additions during an unforgettable year. While they fell two wins short of a World Series birth, the farm system provided hope for a bright future. One prospect who stood out was Cameron Cannon. After a tough 2019 campaign, the Glendale native showed why he was a second-round pick.
In 98 games last year, Cannon hit .284 with 11 home runs. The 24-year-old did not have to rely on his power as in 405 at-bats, he had 115 hits. For the Red Sox’s 26th best prospect, it was a welcoming sign after he finished the 2019 campaign with a .200 average and 42 strikeouts in 45 games. While playing at a higher level, he was able to make adjustments unlike in 2019.
Additionally, in his second minor league season, Cannon avoided a slow start. Through his first 74 games, he posted a .302 average and stole nine bases. He was then promoted to Portland to finish the season. In his first taste of Double-A ball, the University of Arizona product drove in 14 runs and had nine extra-base hits. Although his on-base percentage dropped, Cannon’s power was on display.
Cameron Cannon solo shot 🚀 for @ArizonaBaseball is the @OpusBank #12Best Moment. #Pac12BSB pic.twitter.com/RIPE5dzOba
— Pac-12 Network (@Pac12Network) April 14, 2018
Cannon’s Focus in 2022
While Cannon was impressive with the bat, there are still areas of his game that need some work. In 580 innings last year, he committed 13 errors and posted a .949 fielding percentage. As he moves closer to the majors, he will have to improve in the field. The Red Sox farm system is filled with talented infielders such as Marcelo Mayer and Nick Yorke, leaving Cannon with little room for error at second base.
Regardless of his struggles defensively, Cannon showed flashes in 2021 of what made him successful in college. The former 43rd overall pick controlled the strike zone better and hit more line drives. After only hitting 12 doubles in 2019, he nearly doubled that total with 30 this past season. For a player who is only projected to hit 12-15 home runs a year in the majors, doubles will be key.
Although the 2022 season is currently full of uncertainty, Cannon will be a prospect to watch when the lockout ends. He will most likely start the season in Double-A as he looks to build on his success. If he can improve in the field and at the plate, his stock in a deep Red Sox farm system will rise.
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Main Image Credit: From Tucson.com
