Boston Red Sox Extra Bases: Andrew Benintendi Showing Signs of Being Elite
The season is young, but Boston Red Sox rookie outfielder Andrew Benintendi is showing just why he was named baseball’s top prospect.
What sophomore slump? Okay, technically Boston Red Sox outfielder Andrew Benintendi is a rookie, but his late-season and playoff experience combined with the way he has kicked off the 2017 season has closed any argument as to whether he is ready.
Like any young player, Benintendi will hit a rough stretch. He wouldn’t be human if he doesn’t. But, the adjustments he makes during those stretches will really prove just how bright his star will be.
As of right now, he is showing signs of elite potential, especially with his bat.
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MLB’s first 5-hit game of the season
His hot start this season was capped off by a 5-for-5 performance against the Baltimore Orioles on Sunday.
At just 22 years of age, he became the 3rd-youngest Boston Red Sox player to record a 5-hit game. The feat placed him ahead of Babe Ruth and just behind Tony Conigliaro.
If that’s not a sign of potential greatness, he has already recorded five three-hit games in his career before the five-hit performance on Sunday.
The most impressive quality Andrew Benintendi has shown this year is his ability to adjust both in the lineup and in the outfield. Due to the injury of Jackie Bradley Jr., he has had to play center field, which he did without a problem. He has also adjusted well to batting higher in the batting order.
Overall, Benintendi has demonstrated that he will be a complete player. He has put his defensive talent on display more than once in his brief career and offensively has shown he can be multi-dimensional.
Benintendi showcased his power with an Opening Day home run and has since lead the team with 25 hits in 18 games. He has also shown some speed on the bases with 2 stolen bases.
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So there is no doubt Andrew Benintendi is ready. At just 22 years of age, the sky is the limit and it will be fun watching this kid soar.