In 2023 the expectations will be higher for Rob Refsnyder
During his first season with the Red Sox, Rob Refsnyder quickly became a fan favorite. The 31-year-old appeared in 57 games and posted career highs across the board. When the first pitch of the 2023 campaign is thrown, the expectations will be higher, and Refsnyder will be looking to pick up where he left off.
In 153 at-bats in 2022, the former fifth-round pick hit six home runs and had 21 runs batted in. While he battled injuries, he was an on-base machine and showed some power with 17 extra-base hits. However, his impact was felt at the plate and in the field.
Refsnyder only committed two errors while spending time at all three outfield spots. He also had one assist and arguably the Red Sox’s best defensive play of the season. He has always been reliable in the field, but his versatility was a bonus in 2022.
While the Red Sox fell short of their goals, Refsynder was a consistent bright spot. He only hit less than .280 in a month once during the 2022 campaign. That was in August when the Seoul native posted a .278 batting average.
As the 31-year-old prepares for his second season in Boston, he is no longer flying under the radar. He has shown that he can be a productive player in one of the most competitive divisions in baseball. The key for him is staying healthy.
Before his first stint in Boston, Refsnyder only once appeared in more than 55 games once in a season. If he can replicate his recent success, that number will continue to grow, and his encore in 2023 could be one to keep an eye on.
Follow Jamie on Twitter @JamieGatlin17
For additional Red Sox and Major League baseball content, follow Beyond the Monster: Boston Red Sox on Twitter @BeyondtheMnstr.