Red Sox prospects Blaze Jordan, Wikelman Gonzalez promoted
On Sunday the Boston Red Sox promoted Blaze Jordan and Wikelman Gonzalez from the High-A Greenville Drive to the AA Portland Sea Dogs. In part of multiple promotions on the day, the organization decided it was time for the duo of prospects to take the next step.
If you think you’ve heard of Blaze Jordan from somewhere before, it might not just be from his time crushing the ball in the minor leagues. Jordan became a teen sensation after videos of him participating in a home run derby went viral where he mashed multiple 500-foot home runs. In terms of what Jordan has done as a pro, it’s been a lot of the same as what can be seen in that video.
While he might not be swatting 500-foot home runs, he is still crushing the ball. A home run today in his sendoff game with the Drive, here’s a look at Jordan’s stat line for the season.
73 G | 322 PA | 12 HR | 35 XBH | 55 RBI | 8.7 BB% | 14.6 KK% | .324/.385/.533
Putting together a phenomenal year to this point, he’s a far better hitter than he is in the field. An average-at-best defender at both first and third base, he projects to end up as a first baseman. Anytime there is a defender that projects to be limited to first base, they have to be an exceptional hitter to bring a high value.
It’s possible that Jordan could fit into that profile, though there are concerns about his game. While cutting down on the strikeouts this year (down 11.3%), he is still swinging and missing a lot on high velocity. As always mentioned, the jump from High-A to AA is one of the toughest to make. Not only can hitters be seeing better velocity, but pitchers that have a stronger feel and command for it.
Joining Portland will be a good test for the young corner infielder. Still just 20 years old, Jordan has maturing to do as a hitter. Given his age and trouble hitting high velocity, struggles should be expected. For the former third-round pick, it’s all about how he adjusts to these struggles.
In terms of Wikelman Gonzalez, I recently wrote about his impending promotion. Check out my blog to find out why he could be ready for the next step in his prospect progression.
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