NL West Team Sends Scout To Watch Red Sox Affiliate

The San Diego Padres reportedly sent a scout to watch the Worcester Red Sox’s game on Thursday against the Rochester Red Wings.

While it remains to be seen who the Padres wanted to get a closer look at, Luis Arráez is a potential fit for the Red Sox roster. The left-handed hitting first baseman could fill a hole in the infield while also contributing offensively.

Arráez’s 2.1% strikeout rate is the best among qualified hitters by a sizeable margin. His contact ability is his calling card, leading his league in batting average in three seasons. While his bat lacks power, it could provide a welcome element to the Red Sox offense.

The Red Sox have a 23.6% strikeout rate, which is the fifth highest in baseball. With runners in scoring position, they’re striking out at an even higher rate, making it difficult to push runs across. Adding a prolific contact hitter to the lineup could go a long way in converting base runners into runs.

While adding Arráez would add yet another lefty to an already lefty-heavy lineup, his platoon splits are fairly neutral. He’s hitting .250 with two home runs against lefties this season.

It’s unclear what the return for the infielder would entail, although the Padres’ presence in Worcester indicates they may be interested in prospect capital. The first baseman is in the final year of his contract and is set to make $14 million.

It’s also worth noting that the first baseman did leave the Padres’ Wednesday game early with a knee injury, although initial reports are optimistic about his health going forward. The Padres play three games against the Milwaukee Brewers this weekend.