Jamie Gatlin | September 24th, 2019
With the Boston Red Sox officially eliminated from playoff contention the 2019 team will be looked back on with disappointment. A year after the best season in franchise history the Red Sox were unable to live up to expectations. Despite the inconsistencies and injuries that seemed to be never-ending, there will be a few silver linings to take from this season. One of those will be the play of Michael Chavis who made his long-anticipated major league debut and proved to be a valuable piece.
Although Chavis’s arrival came with a lot of excitement, his path to the majors was full of challenges. The former top prospect broke out in 2017 when he hit 31 home runs between two levels. His rise to the majors, however, was put on hold in 2018 when he received an 80 game suspension for PEDS. Although it slowed Chavis’s development, he has not let it hinder his career.
In Chavis’s first taste of MLB action, the former top prospect hit .254 in 347 at-bats. He showcased his power as in 95 games he had 18 home runs and 10 doubles. As the Red Sox were hit by injuries, he provided a spark offensively in the middle part of the lineup. While Chavis’s offense was impressive, he also contributed defensively.
Although Chavis’s primary position is first base, he also saw some time at second in the majors. The Red Sox rookie held his own at the position allowing manager Alex Cora to be creative with his lineups. The Georgia native will further be tested this offseason as he is expected to see some outfield reps in winter ball. As the Red Sox enter an offseason full of mystery Chavis’s versatility makes him even more valuable.
Going into 2020 the former first-round pick will be looking to build on a solid rookie campaign. The twenty-four-year-old met all expectations in 2019 and showed a knack for coming through in the clutch. Although his MLB career is just beginning Chavis is expected to be a key part of a Red Sox offense for years to come.
The only question that remains for Chavis is what position he will play next year. With Dustin Pedroia’s status uncertain, Chavis could again see some time at second base. The Red Sox will also have a hole at first base as Mitch Moreland and Steve Pearce will be free agents this winter.
Regardless of where Chavis ends up the Red Sox will find a way to get his bat in the lineup. He proved to be a difference maker in year one and is an exciting part of this team’s future.
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