Ceddanne Rafaela makes debut, records first big league hit
The Red Sox promoted top prospect Ceddanne Rafaela on Monday, replacing outfielder Wilyer Abreu who was placed on the Paternity list.
Rafaela was the only bright spot for the Red Sox, who were walloped by the Astros 13-5 in a laugher from Fenway Park.
The No. 4 prospect according to SoxProspects made his major league debut, replacing Adam Duvall in center field. Rafaela collected his first big league hit in his first at-bat in the bottom of the eight inning. He swung at the very first pitch he saw from Astros’ reliever Jose Urquidy and blooped it into right field.
Unfortunately, Rafaela was doubled off first base later on in the inning.
“Amazing, to play my first game at Fenway,” said Rafaela after the game.
Rafaela learned he was going to the big leagues while playing PlayStation with his brother. WooSox skipper Chad Tracy called the young star and gave him the big news.
“I was playing PlayStation with my brother, and the manager (Tracy) called me,” Rafaela said pregame from the Red Sox dugout. “I didn’t respond a couple of times, and then I did respond, and he told me, ‘You don’t want to play in the big leagues?’ I was like, ‘Of course!'”
Rafaela will play both center field and shortstop with the Sox. He also joins All-Star closer Kenley Jansen as the second player on the roster from Curacao.
“It’s everything I always wanted in my life,” he said. “This is the most beautiful day.”
Monday’s call up to as dream come true for Rafaela. He explained what his promotion meant to his family, including his mother.
“It means a lot,” Rafaela said. “And my mom, I think this is more exciting for her than for me, because before I (was) born, she was a Red Sox fan. So, it’s a very special moment to make my debut with the Red Sox.”
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