AL East 2015: Center Fielder Rankings
By Nate Wardle
Sep 27, 2014; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox center fielder Rusney Castillo (38) hits an RBI single during the second inning against the New York Yankees at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
3. Boston Red Sox – Rusney Castillo, Mookie Betts, Jackie Bradley Jr.
Jackie Bradley Jr. struggled so much in 2014, hitting below the Mendoza line, that not only did he get demoted, but the Red Sox spent a lot of money to go get prized Cuban outfielder Rusney Castillo. The Sox will pay Castillo over $10 million over the next seven years. Castillo made his major league debut on September 17th of the lost season for the Red Sox, and went on to hit .333/.400/.528. That was in 10 games and 40 plate appearances, but it shows this guy could be a star.
He will have to prove himself in his first full season, but the RocNation client will likely be a huge part of the Red Sox for years to come. Behind him is Mookie Betts, the second baseman turned outfielder, who will likely play a utility role in 2015 (if he isn’t traded for Cole Hamels, which has been rumored ad nauseam). Bradley Jr. has fallen far, but still has a chance to make the team, although it isn’t going to be easy.
Next: Still waiting for this star to rise...