David Hamilton received special honors on Monday
For David Hamilton, the 2022 season was full of unforgettable moments. The Texas native spent his first full season in the Red Sox system and flashed his potential. While the speedy super utility player only hit .251, he rewrote the record books with his work on the bases.
In 119 games, Hamilton stole 70 bases which were the most by a Red Sox minor leaguer in a single season. Before Hamilton was acquired in the Hunter Renfroe trade, the previous record was 68, which Gus Burgess set in 1981. However, that was not the only record he broke as Hamilton now holds the Portland record, which had previously been held by Julio Ramirez, who stole 64 bases in 1999. Every time he reached base, Hamilton put extra pressure on the pitcher.
With the Double-A season over, Hamilton received a special honor on Monday afternoon. The former eighth-round pick was named the Red Sox's Minor League Baserunner of the year. Due to his blazing speed, Hamilton set a career-high with 81 runs and was a human highlight reel in the season's final months.
Although Hamilton dazzled on the bases, he showed more power than in years past. After hitting eight home runs in his first professional season, he hit 12 in 2022. The twenty-four-year-old also showed improved plate discipline with a career-high 56 walks. He currently projects as a utility player in the majors, but that could change if his power and defense continue to improve
While the University of Texas Austin product is expected to start next season in Double-A, he is not flying under the radar as much due to his speed. On Monday, he was finally acknowledged for his record-setting campaign, which the Red Sox are hoping is just the start for a player with game-changing speed.
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