With Spring Training only weeks away, the Boston Red Sox second base job is still up for grabs. A position that used to be a strength for Boston has been a revolving door the last few years. One player that could be a part of the solution but enters 2021 at a crossroads is Michael Chavis. The former first-round pick had a solid rookie season but struggled in 2020. The Atlanta, Ga., native will now begin his third major league season with a lot to prove.
Entering 2020, Chavis was coming off a productive rookie season in which he hit 18 home runs in 95 games. Although he struck out 127 times, Chavis was able to drive in 58 runs. His power came as advertised as 19 of his hits went for extra bases. The Red Sox did not qualify for the playoffs, but Chavis was a bright spot.
The Ice Horse Michael Chavis hitting a 460 foot BOMB.
— SAVAGE BOSTON🍀 (@SavageBoston) May 4, 2019
Chavis’s sophomore season, however, was a forgettable year. In 158 at-bats, he struck out nearly one-third of the time and hit .212. Chavis’s power, which was his strength in the minors, seemingly disappeared as only 12 of his hits went for extra bases. The second baseman seemed lost at the plate and failed to make an impact offensively.
Additionally, Chavis struggled in the field. After only making four errors as a rookie, he made six in his sophomore campaign. As a result, Chavis moved around the diamond. He also saw time in the outfield and at first base. After spending 45 games at second as a rookie, he only appeared at second in eight games in 2020.
Can Chavis Reclaim Second Base?
When Spring Training begins, Chavis will be looking to turn the page on the last season. The Red Sox’s other second base option currently is Christian Arroyo, as top prospect Jeter Downs will start the season in the minors. Although Arroyo showed some power last year, he is a career .219 hitter. The Red Sox have also been connected to D.J. LeMahieu, one of baseball’s top free agents.
Game-winning double on his first major league at-bat.
Welcome to the Red Sox, Michael Chavis! pic.twitter.com/8QZiLQLKjZ
— Red Sox Dynasty (@RedSoxDynasty_) April 21, 2019
As Chavis looks to claim a spot in Spring Training, he will have to improve his plate discipline. While his power can be game-changing, he was an easy out in his second season. The Red Sox also have a few highly-rated prospects in the majors. Although Chavis can play multiple positions, he is one of a handful of Red Sox players with that ability.
Regardless of what moves the Red Sox make, how Chavis performs this year could greatly impact his future in Boston.
Check us out on our socials:
Twitter: @PTSTNews and @TalkPrimeTime
Facebook Page: Prime Time Sports Talk
Join our Facebook Group: Prime Time Sports Talk
Instagram: @ptsportstalk
Follow Jamie Gatlin On Twitter @JamieGatlin17
Main Image Credit: Embed from Getty Images
One Response