Red Sox prospect Phillip Sikes is seeing the work he put in during the offseason pay off
Red Sox prospect Phillip Sikes is seeing the work he put in during the offseason pay off
“I've made huge strides but still feel like I haven’t tapped into my full potential.”
In the 18th round of the 2021 MLB draft, the Red Sox selected a talented outfielder out of TCU in Phillips Sikes. During his tenure in the Red Sox system, Sikes has seen his value rise as he has moved closer to the majors. In his first taste of Double-A action, the former 526th overall pick has continued to build on his success.
Through 93 at-bats this season, Sikes has posted a .280 batting average with ten runs batted in. He has also shown some power with ten extra-base hits and played solid defense. His success has partly been due to his ability to make adjustments at each level.
“The biggest thing for me is taking care of my body every day and doing what’s necessary to stay on the field and play at a high level,” said Sikes. “Knowing what you have to do to get your body ready is key, and it’s different for everybody.”
During his time in the minors, Sikes has played alongside top prospects such as Nick Yorke and Ceddanne Rafaela. They both have very bright futures, and Sikes has improved his game by picking their brains.
“It’s been great,” said Sikes. “I love watching those guys play the game. Picking their brain and seeing what works for them has definitely helped me. We compete and push each other, which ultimately raises all of our games.”
While the season is far from over, Sikes has not been overmatched by the advanced competition. The TCU product has shown good plate discipline while using his above-average speed to put pressure on opposing pitchers. Over the last two weeks, he has been an RBI machine, and seen the work he put in the offseason payoff.
“Having a really good off-season and swinging the bat faster than before has helped me a lot,” said Sikes.
Due to his play this season, the 24-year-old is a prospect that people have become more familiar with. In his last four games, Sikes has seven runs batted in. So far in May, he has posted a .357 batting average. A trip to Worcester could be in Sikes's future if he can stay hot at the plate. The Texas native, however, is far from satisfied.
" I've grown in all aspects of the game since starting professional ball," said Sikes."As far as the hitting side goes, I've made huge strides but still feel like I haven't tapped into my full potential."
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