2023 can be "Major" for Christian Koss
Christian Koss joined the Boston Red Sox organization via trade back in 2020. In the two seasons since then, the UC Irvine product has done nothing but produce.
Over the last two seasons, the right-handed hitter has a .265 average with 40 doubles, 12 triples, and 32 home runs. He's driven in 139 runs, scored 134 more, and stolen 26 bases in that time.
Koss is more than just explosive offense, though. He's shown a great glove at shortstop, third base, and second base. The 25-year-old has even been learning the outfield to add to his versatility. Not to mention he's an underrated burner.
Koss heads into 2023 as someone fans know of but don't know about.
When I asked Koss what he would want Red Sox fans to know about him, he said, "I love to play the game of baseball."
He feels his biggest improvement since entering the minor leagues is his power. There is legitimate 20-home run potential in that bat. Something that you don't see too often from a middle infielder.Â
The relationships that Koss has with his teammates and coaches are blatantly clear when watching him play. He seems to get along with everyone and is out there having fun.
Those relationships can be especially important for a player trying to grow. Clearly, they have benefited Koss, as he says there are "too many people to name" when asked who has helped him the most in his career.
As for those relationships with his teammates, Koss has handshakes - a lot of them. It's fun to spot when you're at a game, but Koss couldn't name a specific favorite.
"All of them. Each one is its own vibe for the player it’s with."
Koss has the right attitude. He has fun with the game but clearly takes his job seriously.
2023 is a big year for him. Not on the Boston Red Sox 40-man roster, you could argue that he still has a mountain to climb to make it to the Major Leagues. Koss is going to keep hitting, though. The baserunning will be there. He'll be chasing a 20-homer season and playing spectacular defense all over the diamond.
Christian Koss will do what he needs to do. If the opportunity comes, he'll be ready. So when you hear Ice Ice Baby blaring through the speakers as he steps up to the plate for the first time at Fenway Park, expect to see a player who can do it all and has his passion for the game shine through.
Follow Hunter on Twitter @Hunter_Noll.
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