The Red Sox general manager — then an assistant GM — sat in the war room, consulting with general manager Theo Epstein and amateur scouting director Amiel Sawdaye on whom to select during the 2011 MLB First-Year Player's Draft.
After scooping up pitcher Matt Barnes and outfielder Jackie Bradley last year, Cherington can reflect on those times with pride. Just a few months into their pro careers, Barnes and Bradley have each emerged as crown jewels.
As the 2012 draft approaches on Monday, Cherington and Sawdaye took a moment to revel in the glory of last year's acquisitions.
"The guys from last year's draft are off to a good start and that's encouraging," Cherington said. "It's very early returns, but industry-wise last year's draft seems pretty strong, particularly on the pitching side of things. Amiel as a director and his staff did a great job last year preparing for the draft and executing."
"We think we got some good players and we think we'll get some good players this year, too."
Through 10 starts for Greenville and Salem, Barnes has validated the organization's decision to draft him out of Connecticut, posting a 1.15 ERA while striking out 78 batters through 54 2/3 innings.
Meanwhile, Bradley has been a force at the plate. The former standout at South Carolina –– who has amassed 232 professional plate appearances –– is batting .355 with four homers, 32 RBIs, 22 doubles to go along with a .484 on-base percentage.
With the immediate return on investment from Barnes and Bradley, the Red Sox are vying to replicate their magic from last year.
"There's going to be some depth in the college class, there's some depth in the high school and hopefully, we can find those whether it's third, fourth, fifth [round]," Sawdaye said. "Wherever it is, we're going to find some pretty good players. It's always difficult to compare drafts every year because you're always excited about the year that's ahead of you and because you have a chance to get those players."
Like last year, Cherington and Sawdaye will carefully ponder all options.
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