Nick Sogard is looking like a major leaguer in Worcester
Nick Sogard is looking like a major leaguer in Worcester
If you were to walk into the WooSox clubhouse anytime there is a home game at Polar Park, you would know that Nick Sogard is there.
The California native always has a smile on his face and is one of the friendliest guys in the room. He is one of the first to say hello and is usually one of the loudest in the room, and I say that in a very good way. It also earns him points that he was raised as a Boston sports fan by his dad, who grew up in Orange, Massachusetts.
The general theme of the 2023 WooSox roster is versatility. Just about every single player that has been in the lineup for the WooSox this year has played more than one position. In fact, the only players to not play more than one position in a game this year are Enmanuel Valdez and Ronaldo Hernandez.
WooSox manager Chad Tracy has hammered home that the ability to play multiple positions will help any player reach the majors. Sogard has embraced his utility role and has carved his way into the lineup on an everyday basis.
Sogard came into the season as a true bench utility player, but his bat has made him more of a mainstay in the lineup. In 21 games in May, Sogard hit .314. In 21 games in June, he has hit .321. His OPS for the year sits at .393 as the hits and walks keep piling up. With David Hamilton up in Boston, Sogard recently took over the leadoff spot and has been getting on base almost every game as he has been hitting .369 and carrying an impressive .417 OBP. He has only gone four games without a hit in the month of June.
Let’s not forget he is also a switch hitter. As a left-handed batter, he is slashing .271/.374/.361. As a right-handed batter, he is slashing an impressive .356/.441/.458. The numbers prove that he is capable of hitting from both sides of the plate against the tough pitching in Triple-A the WooSox have faced this year.
The versatility with his glove has been on full display this season. He has started games at second base, shortstop, third base, left field, and right field. His more natural positions are the infield spots he has played, as he has spent 509 games between his college and minor league career. While his outfield time has been more brief, he has shown the ability to be able to handle those spots as well.
With the bat trending in the right direction and his glove in a very good spot, Sogard is putting himself on the map at the MLB level. The ability to play 5 positions and take professional at-bats from both sides of the plate, should have him in consideration to grab a bench spot in Boston.
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