Boston Red Sox utility player Ceddanne Rafaela has been recognized by FOX fans as the midseason American League Rookie of the Year.
Manager Alex Cora has been vocal that he believes Rafaela should be in the ROTY conversation, and it seems the public agrees. Former Red Sox player and current NESN analyst Will Middlebrooks has also given the rookie high praise.
An area of Rafaela’s game that has jumped out the most is his athleticism at shortstop and centerfield.
Against the Oakland Athletics earlier this month in the fourth inning, he quickly scooped up the ball and made a jump throw to make an out at shortstop to show off his talents.
Rafaela has used his speed and athleticism at centerfield to make impressive catches. He had played 57 games at the position and 48 at shortstop.
In addition to his defense, the versatile rookie has also started to find consistency in his offense. He is batting .246 with 52 RBIs and 11 home runs through 93 games.
The Red Sox have trust in Rafaela, signing him to an eight-year, $50 million contract extension earlier this year.
While the recognition by FOX doesn’t mean much when it comes to actual season awards, it could be a look into the end-of-the-season awards. Rafaela has continued to make a case for himself in July for a chance at AL ROTY.
Rafaela and the Red Sox will start the season back up on Friday against the Los Angeles Dodgers. First pitch is set for 10:10 p.m. ET, with all game coverage on NESN.
