Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Red Sox Face Potentially Overcrowded Outfield
Jackie Bradley, Jr. could make things tough for Ben Cherington. The young outfielder has had a recent offensive surge—and turned in a string of stellar plays in the field. Once Shane Victorino returns from the DL, Boston will face a version of Outfield Musical Chairs—with Daniel Nava, Jonny Gomes, Grady Sizemore, Victorino and Bradley all trying to squeeze into four spots. And we're not even factoring in Mike Carp (who can play OF, 1B and DH). Somebody has got to go. As WEEI.com's Alex Speier points out, it could come down to Nava (who still has minors options) or Carp (who hasn't played much). Of course, there's always the chance of somehow moving Gomes as well. Speier also suggests that the most potent Red Sox outfield alignment is Bradley in center, Sizemore in left and Victorino in right. Not much would get past that trio! Intriguing thoughts.