The Boston Red Sox finished the unofficial first half of the season on an absolute heater after going on a 10-game winning streak that included recent sweeps of the Washington Nationals, Colorado Rockies and Tampa Bay Rays to climb within three games of the American League East-leading Toronto Blue Jays.
With the Red Sox offense returning to form following the shocking trade of Rafael Devers last month, Trevor Story, Roman Anthony and Ceddanne Rafaela have all been among the hottest hitters in baseball over the last couple of weeks.
Currently the owner of a ten-game hitting streak, Rafaela has been flirting with superstar status during a torrid stretch at the plate that has seen him go 16-for-39 with five home runs and 15 RBIs while continuing to deliver Gold Glove caliber defense in centerfield.
The 24-year-old breakout star has garnered wider attention of late due to his hitting streak and dramatic walk-off home run during the Red Sox’s 5-4 victory over the Rays on Friday. In addition to being considered an All-Star game snub by baseball insiders, MLB Network’s Mark DeRosa broke down the changes in Rafaela’s approach during an insightful segment that aired last week.
Red Sox all-time saves leader and NESN analyst Jonathan Papelbon was a big fan of DeRosa’s praise of Rafaela, and tagged the MLB Network host in an amusing social media post that included a bold prediction.
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“@markdero7 Yes he is feeling sexy, but you forgot two things,” said Paplebon. “He can dance all night long and will be in the MVP race!”
The six-time All-Star closer and 2007 World Series champion has not been shy about his belief that Rafaela will be in the discussion for the AL MVP award, also mentioning it during his stint in the analysts chair for NESN over the weekend.
Featured image via Bob DeChiara/USA TODAY Sports Images
