The Pittsburgh Pirates were a busy team at the trade deadline last year. As they continued to add young talent, one player they acquired was Michael Chavis. The former top prospect was at a crossroads in Boston and needed a change of scenery. During his brief tenure in a Pirates uniform, Chavis is playing the best baseball of his career. While the 2022 campaign is far from over; he has gotten off to an impressive start.
Through 62 at-bats, Chavis has posted a .274 average with 12 runs batted. The former first-round pick also ranks fifth on the Pirates in hits. While the Pirates’ offense isn’t known for its power, Chavis has six extra-base hits and has already matched his home run total from last year with three. As the Atlanta native has earned more playing time, he has been solid defensively.
So far this season, Chavis’ versatility has been on full display as he has spent time in the outfield and infield. The 26-year-old has only committed one error and turned seven double plays. Regardless of where the Pirates have placed him, he has been successful. His recent play has been a continuation of what he showed last year.
In 30 career games with the Pirates, Chavis has posted a .316 batting average with four home runs. In three seasons with the Red Sox, he only hit .234. The former 26th overall pick has also shown a flair for the dramatics in Pittsburgh. The Pirates’ only grand slam this season belongs to Chavis, which is one of the Pirates’ best moments so far this season.
The Pirates have been in a bit of an extra-base hit lull. Michael Chavis has provided the spark. Twice! pic.twitter.com/G1AXj8iFM3
— Justice delos Santos (@justdelossantos) May 1, 2022
What to expect from Chavis for the rest of 2022
While time will tell if Chavis’s success lasts, he is quickly becoming a fan favorite. Since arriving in Pittsburgh, he has done nothing but hit. With a slow start to the season by Yoshi Tsutsugo, his case for more playing time is only increasing. He has been one of the Pirates’ best bats this season and leads the team in runs batted in and has the second-most home runs on the team. With a fresh start, the Red Sox product has taken advantage of his latest opportunity.
If Chavis continues his recent play, his name should be a regular on the lineup card. He also has the versatility to play multiple positions, which will be critical with prospects such as Mason Martin excelling in the minors. However, for the Pirates, his success has been a welcoming sign after his struggles in Boston.
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Main Image Credit: Embed from Getty Images
