Ryan Fitzgerald is entering a critical point in his Red Sox career
With pitchers and catchers set to report to spring training in less than a week, the 2023 MLB season is quickly approaching. When the Red Sox take the field, they will look very different than a year ago. With new faces across the roster, there could be opportunities for some younger players. One prospect who will be looking to make their mark is Ryan Fitzgerald.
Last year, Fitzgerald became a closely watched prospect after hitting .313 in 11 spring training games. His power was on display in that span, as four of his five hits were home runs. However, he was unable to replicate his success, and in his first full season at Triple-A, he struggled to get on base.
In 127 games for Worcester, Fitzgerald posted a .219 batting average and struck out 135 times. Before the 2022 campaign, the 28-year-old had never finished a season hitting below .270. While his drop in average was alarming, Fitzgerald still managed to hit the ball out of the ballpark and reached the 16-home run mark for the second consecutive season.
As Fitzgerald looks to put the 2022 season in the rearview mirror, spring training provides a prime opportunity for redemption. The Red Sox have multiple infield prospects getting closer to the majors, and the Hinsdale native is already 28 years old. He has intriguing power and will need to show that his low batting average was a one-year fluke, not a growing trend.
Fitzgerald does not only offer power but also versatility. Last year the Red Sox shortstop appeared in at least one game at every position except for catcher and only committed nine errors. That makes him a prime candidate to be called up if injuries do arise. He could also be an interesting option for teams looking to improve their depth at the minor or major league level.
Although the start of the 2023 season is still weeks away, Fitzgerald is about to enter a critical year. He already has 140 Triple-A games under his belt and has provided steady production with 223 runs batted in 442 games in the minors. However, he is running out of time in a farm system full of talent.
A hot start for Fitzgerald will be critical, and if his time in the majors comes, he will have to make the most of the opportunity. In less than a week, he will get to show why he should get at least a look at the major league level with opportunities at a premium.
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