Corey Rosier earning himself more playing time in Double-A
The Boston Red Sox got more than Eric Hosmer from the San Diego Padres last year. In the trade that sent pitching prospect Jay Groome to the Padres, Boston acquired Hosmer and two prospects, Max Ferguson and Corey Rosier.
Rosier was having a solid season with San Diego's High-A affiliate. The outfielder slashed .163/.272/.275 in 23 games for the Greenville Drive, though.
Due to his struggles, starting 2023 in Double-A may have come as a surprise to some. Rosier hasn't had any issues, though. In fact, he's thrived.
The left-handed hitter has a .357/.400/.452 slash line with four doubles in 14 games this season. He's driven in six runs, scored five more, and has nine steals in 10 attempts.
Yes, it's a small sample size. You can't just ignore the stats because it's early, though. At some point, the stats matter.
Is Rosier going to hit .357 all year? No. But he's got a lot going for him. The 23-year-old has had a hit in 10-of-12 games where he's had at least one at-bat. He hasn't struck out more than once in a single game this year. With runners in scoring position, he has a .357 batting average.
Rosier's done everything he needs to do to get more playing time. The issue is Portland's roster is lousy with outfielders. Ceddanne Rafaela, Phillip Sikes, Tyler McDonough, and Tyler Dearden are all out there with Rosier.
Rafaela and McDonough can both play in the infield but are seen as primarily outfielders.
With all that talent, Rosier won't get on the field every day. But he's earned more time. Not only that, but he also deserves a look closer to the top of the order. The UNC Greensboro product hasn't hit anywhere in the order above the seven-hole this season.
Corey Rosier is an intriguing prospect for the Boston Red Sox. He isn't going to hit for much power. Contact is the name of the game for him, which is perfect. He has elite speed, and speed doesn't slump. Good defense in the outfield is a bonus as well.
When the Red Sox made that trade last August Corey Rosier wasn't moving the needle for anyone. As May approaches, he's been one of the standout players on the Portland Sea Dogs' roster. Will he continue to dominate? That's left to be seen. One thing is certain, though, Rosier has earned more playing time.
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