Wilyer Abreu makes an ‘outstanding’ catch against the wall in right field
Red Sox right fielder Wilyer Abreu ran down a 366-foot fly ball and made a great over-the-shoulder catch up against the wall, robbing Dansby Swanson of extra bases.
“Outstanding,” manager Alex Cora said to reporters postgame at Fenway Park. “This kid shows up every day. He plays hard. He pays attention. He plays good defense, puts good at-bats, hustles. We love him.”
Abreu has been one of the Red Sox's best hitters this season, hitting .292 with seven doubles, two home runs, 11 RBI, nine walks, and four stolen bases with an .838 OPS.
On Sunday night, his bat was quiet, going 0-for-4 with a strikeout, but he balanced that out with his excellent catch in right field.
“He checks all the boxes, man,” Cora said. “He does. He’s fast. He has a great arm. He plays where he’s supposed to be. We’ve got him in right and left. He’s just a good player, man. And that’s not easy to do. That’s not an easy field, and he’s been good. We’re going to keep rolling him. He’s going to be playing a lot.
“He’s going to steal bases, too,” Cora added. “He’s going to run the bases the right way and score from first. He’s a good player. He’s a complete player, and he’s a joy to watch.”
Abreu ranks in the 74th percentile for range (OAA) and in the 97th percentile for arm strength, according to Baseball Savant.
According to his SoxProspects scouting report, Abreu offers “solid instincts and efficient routes” in the outfield. His arm is considered to be “plus-to-better” and is “strong and accurate.”
Abreu is not considered a top-100 prospect, but he has been impressive since being acquired from the Astros with Enmanuel Valdez for catcher Christian Vazquez.
Since his initial call-up from Triple-A Worcester, Abreu has looked like a steal and is developing into a sound outfielder at the major league level.
