Theo Epstein‘s helped lead the Red Sox to two World Series championships, but his best work may be in the farm system.
Every year, no matter what, it seems the Red Sox are developing future stars. Some reach their potentials in a Red Sox uniform, while others end up shipped away in trades (which may or may not yield staff aces and World Series MVPs).
There’s no such thing as a guarantee when it comes to prospects, but there are enough in the system to get Red Sox fans excited for the future.
Topping the list is Casey Kelly. The former half-shortstop, half-pitcher has switched to full-time pitching this year, and he’s currently going through the learning curve. At Double-A Portland, he is 0-3 with a 4.32 ERA, but that’s not derailing any hopes on his potential.
Kelly’s teammate, Jose Iglesias, mans Kelly’s old position at short, and in his first season in the minors, he’s batting .303 for the Sea Dogs. The 20-year-old native of Cuba could — if things go well over the next few years — be the anchor that stabilizes the shortstop position in Boston.
Then there is Ryan Kalish, also of the Sea Dogs, who could be bringing some pop to Boston in the next few years. The 22-year-old is batting .254 this year with six homers. In the field, he’s spent time at all three outfield positions, and as Red Sox fans have come to see this season, versatility can have great value in the bigs.
So, as Cassy from Boston wants to know, who are you most excited about? If it’s Casey Kelly, text “SOX1” to 542542; if it’s Jose Iglesias, text “SOX2” to 542542; or if it’s Ryan Kalish, text “SOX3” to 542542.
