Bobby Dalbec Makes First MLB Start in Right Field
Boston, Massachusetts
– Bobby Dalbec, the Boston Red Sox’s highly touted prospect, made his first Major League Baseball start in right field on Monday night against the New York Yankees. The 23-year-old Dalbec has been primarily a third baseman throughout his minor league career, but the Red Sox have been experimenting with him in the outfield in recent days. Manager Ron Roenicke said he was impressed with Dalbec’s athleticism and arm strength and decided to give him a shot in right field. “He can really run, he’s got a good arm, and he’s played there before,” Roenicke said. “In this ballpark, you need to be able to run, you need to be able to get to balls. He’s got all that.” Dalbec made a solid defensive start, handling all three balls hit his way cleanly. He also made a nice diving catch in the third inning, preventing an extra-base hit. At the plate, Dalbec went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts. However, he did draw a walk in the sixth inning, giving him an on-base percentage of .333 for the game. “I felt good out there,” Dalbec said after the game. “I’m just trying to improve every day and get better. I’m happy I got the chance to play.” Dalbec is one of several young players who have been getting playing time for the Red Sox this season. The team is in rebuilding mode and is looking to develop its future core. Manager Ron Roenicke has said that he will continue to give Dalbec opportunities to play in the outfield. He believes that Dalbec has the potential to be a valuable asset for the Red Sox in the future. “He’s got a lot of talent,” Roenicke said. “He’s still learning, but he’s got a lot of upside.”
Bobby Dalbec Makes First MLB Start in Right Field
Boston Red Sox first baseman Bobby Dalbec has been given the opportunity to start in right field for the first time in his Major League Baseball career. With Alex Verdugo and Jackie Bradley Jr. both out of the lineup due to injuries, Dalbec will take the field in the outfield against the New York Yankees on Wednesday night. The 25-year-old has primarily played first base in his three seasons with the Red Sox but has made occasional appearances in the outfield, mostly in left field. Dalbec has struggled at the plate this season, hitting just .211 with 4 home runs and 13 RBIs in 60 games. However, he has shown flashes of power and athleticism, making him an intriguing option for manager Alex Cora. “We’re just trying to create some different looks,” Cora said of Dalbec’s outfield assignment. “He’s got good instincts. He’s been working hard in the outfield. We’ll see how it goes.” Dalbec will be tasked with covering a lot of ground in right field at Yankee Stadium, one of the largest outfields in the league. He will also need to communicate effectively with catcher Christian Vázquez and center fielder Jarren Duran. It remains to be seen if Dalbec will become a regular in the outfield, but his first MLB start in right field is a significant step in broadening his skillset and giving the Red Sox some flexibility with their lineup.
