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Boston Red Sox: Mookie Betts has the making of something legendary

By Tarringo Basile-vaughan

WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 17: Mookie Betts #50 of the Boston Red Sox and the American League looks on from the dugout during the 89th MLB All-Star Game, presented by Mastercard at Nationals Park on July 17, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 17: Mookie Betts #50 of the Boston Red Sox and the American League looks on from the dugout during the 89th MLB All-Star Game, presented by Mastercard at Nationals Park on July 17, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) /
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As one of baseball’s most exciting young players, Boston Red Sox outfielder Mookie Betts has the making of something legendary.

Appearing in his second All-Star game on Tuesday night, Boston Red Sox outfielder Mookie Betts stood in an outfield alongside Mike Trout and Aaron Judge. Each player under 26 years of age, each player already making a historical impact on the game of baseball.

As the players stood in their fielding positions, it was not hard to recognize three players who will be competing for MVP awards and World Series championships for years to come.  As a Red Sox fan, it was easy to recognize just how good Betts is already in his career.

Entering the All-Star break with 23 home runs to go along with a .359 batting average, Betts has proven that he can do it all.

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Already solidifying himself as a top leadoff man, the young outfielder is challenging Trout as the best player in Major League Baseball.  He doesn’t have quite the power the Anaheim Angels outfielder has, but he has the speed and defense to be a better all-around player.

At the plate?

Well, New York Yankees starting pitcher C.C. Sabathia named Mookie Betts the most challenge Red Sox hitter to face for a reason.  He is a player who challenges opposing pitchers.  As a leadoff hitter, he typically sets the tone offensively with his ability to get on base and with the pop he has with his bat.

As a mere offensive presence in the lineup, he can change the complexion of any game with just one at bat.

Want proof?

His 13-pitch duel last week against Toronto Blue Jays pitcher J.A. Happ, which resulted in a game-changing grand slam showed his relentlessness at the plate.  As the big hit delivered his team a 6-4 win over the Blue Jays, it also showcased his value.

The power of a legend

And while the rest of baseball is taking notice of the greatness of Betts, at just 25 years of age, he is still discovering his ability and that is the scary part of his early success.  On pace for 38 home runs this season, Mookie Betts told ESPN’s Jessica Mendoza on Monday that he is surprised by his power numbers.

Related Story: Mookie Betts wagering on millions with 2018 performance

"“Definitely just the home runs, the power, Betts said when asked what has surprised him about himself this season.  “I didn’t know – I knew I could hit some home runs, but I didn’t know I could do what I’m doing.”"

As significantly the smallest player standing next to Mike Trout and Aaron Judge, the fact that he is on pace with each of them when it comes to home run numbers makes his star shine even brighter.

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While his success back in 2016 dimmed a little with a mediocre 2017 season, Mookie Betts is proving in 2018 that his stardom and flawless approach to the game of baseball was no fluke.  With reminders of the great Willie Mayes, this Boston Red Sox young star has the making of something legendary.

Hopefully, they will pay the man to have a long career in a Red Sox uniform.

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