Christian Koss is one Red Sox prospect flying under the radar
Over the last two years, Christian Koss is one Red Sox prospect that fans have become familiar with. The former 12th-first-round pick was traded to the Red Sox three years ago. In spring training last season, he made his mark early with a walk-off home run. With the 2023 campaign quickly approaching, Koss is closer to accomplishing his dream.
In 125 games during the 2022 campaign, the UC Irvine product posted a .260 average while driving in a career-high 84 runs. He was a power threat, as 44 of his 127 hits went for extra bases. While he has always held his own at the plate, he was a run producer in his first season in Portland as his playing time increased.
However, there were other ways he made an impact. The 25-year-old stole 16 bases after entering the 2022 campaign with 20 through his first two minor league seasons. His speed put pressure on opposing pitchers, and he was able to put his teammates in positions to succeed. In an organization that values versatility, Koss has been a perfect fit.
While Koss is still two calls from the majors, he made an excellent first impression in his first taste of Double-A action last season. He only committed six errors and turned 23 double plays. Against advanced competition, he was a force at a plate. His road to the majors, however, at the moment seems blocked.
So far this offseason, the Red Sox have focused on improving their depth with acquisitions such as Aldalberto Mondesi. The California native also has highly regarded prospects such as Marcelo Mayer and Nick Yorke inching closer to the majors. That is why in 2023, Koss will have to set himself apart.
At every level, the Red Sox shortstop has produced at the plate and held his own defensively. Due to his 2023 campaign in Portland, more eyes will be on Koss when spring training begins. He has little left to prove at Double-A and could be in Worcester at some point this summer. If that happens, he could get a look in the majors if injuries hit.
Regardless of when his time in the majors comes, Koss has shown that he can be a valuable piece regardless of the level. He currently projects to be a utility infielder with power and above-average defense. That will be a hard combination to ignore if Koss keeps producing as he gets closer to the majors.
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