Boston Red Sox: Benintendi’s Blast Helps Boston Beat Baltimore

Sep 21, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Boston Red Sox outfielder Andrew Benintendi (40) is congratulated by catcher Sandy Leon (3) after hitting a home run in the sixth inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 21, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Boston Red Sox outfielder Andrew Benintendi (40) is congratulated by catcher Sandy Leon (3) after hitting a home run in the sixth inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports /
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Boston Red Sox rookie Andrew Benintendi launched his second career home run to help the Red Sox win their season-high seventh consecutive victory Wednesday night. 

There is something special about Andrew Benintendi.  In the sixth inning Wednesday night, the rookie outfielder launched a first-pitch three-run home run into the right-field bleachers at Camden Yards.  The blast launched the Boston Red Sox to a 5-1 victory over the Baltimore Orioles.

The 22-year-old rookie sensation has progressed quite nicely since joining the big club.  Benintendi has done it on defense and have contributed with his bat, which was showcased on Wednesday night.  His current six-game hitting streak has also given Red Sox manager John Farrell thoughts about moving him up in the order.

“Yeah, I’ve thought about it,” Farrell said of Benintendi who currently hits ninth in the lineup.  “When we have our normal starting lineup there, when Hanley [Ramirez] is in that 5-hole, that 6 spot is a key spot for us.  And when you can get the ability to maybe not fear a matchup, that would certainly continue to lengthen our lineup out.”

Call him Benny Ballgame

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The maturity Benintendi has at the plate in his brief time in the major leagues showcases him as the real deal.  Add that with the fact that the team is in the midst of a pennant race and you have a young, talented player who is obtaining  valuable experience early on in his career.

“It’s been really fun,” Benintendi said.  “Three weeks [on the disabled list] seemed like three months.  It was fun watching, but after a while, it’s like, yeah, I want to go out there and have fun with these guys.  It’s really good to be back.”

Speaking of fun, Benintendi showed off some dance moves during the Red Sox’ outfielders’ celebratory victory dance.  The outfielder showed off his Michael Jackson impression, a dance he said was inspired by the video “Billie Jean.”

“I grew up watching him on YouTube, his dances,” Benintendi said.  “I thought it would be quick enough to do out there.  Just wanted to add a little fun to that.”

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Andrew Benintendi’s execution of the move is talked about just as much as his three-run blast to help the Red Sox take a five game lead in the American League East.