Making Statement? Rising Star Hits First Homer Of Red Sox Spring Training

It only took until the bottom of the second inning for a Boston Red Sox player to go yard.

Ceddanne Rafaela retook the lead over the Tampa Bay Rays when he hit a solo home run off Jonathan Hernández.

Rafaela was speculated to be Boston’s super utility player. However, manager Alex Cora noted that the 24-year-old primarily would be the team’s center fielder. Rafaela produced elite defensive numbers in the outfield, and he’s continued to make strides to be better at the plate.

The third-year big leaguer only produced a 2.6% walk rate last season, and his contact numbers were below average. His solo shot Saturday was a small sample but perhaps was the first display of an improved version of Rafaela who could make a big leap in his third major league season.

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