From 2007 to 2017, the Boston Red Sox had a stalwart at second base named Dustin Pedroia. In the years that followed, the team has tried multiple plug-and-play options, but none have stuck at the position.
In 13 games since being called up, Anthony Seigler has shown that he has what it takes to be the everyday second baseman.
Anthony Seigler may be Boston's answer at second base
Seigler, 27, was a former first-round pick of the arch-rival New York Yankees, but never panned out in their farm system and signed as a minor league free agent with the Milwaukee Brewers before being traded along with Caleb Durbin this offseason in exchange for a package of players headlined by south paw Kyle Harrison.
And while Harrison has pitched like an ace for the Brew Crew this season, if Seigler's recent performance with Boston is an indication, he could help lessen fans' early-season complaints.
In 13 games with Boston, Seigler has a .350 batting average with five XBH to go along with a .409 OBP. He also has proven to be a great defensive player with only one error in 48 total chances.
The Red Sox have been searching for an answer at second base since former fourth overall pick Marcelo Mayer has struggled at the big league level. Over the last two seasons, Mayer has played in 114 games and has a career .223 batting average.
Fresh off a wild-card berth last season, the Red Sox, standing at 37-48, are in a lost season at the bottom of the American League East. But amidst their underwhelming, injury-riddled season, the team has shown flashes of competence with role players stepping up to the plate and producing.
Anthony Seigler deserves more opportunites to show his value
Seigler began the season as an overlooked offseason acquisition and wasn't expected to be a part of Boston's long-term plans. But in the last 13 games, he has brought a spark to the lineup and made the most out of his opportunities, which have made it difficult for Craig Breslow to justify searching for other second base options.
Whether his hot streak continues and he settles in as the everyday second baseman, or becomes a valuable bat off the bench, Anthony Seigler has shown that he belongs in the big leagues.
With the trade deadline approaching, one thing is clear: Craig Breslow has one less position to worry about thanks to Seigler's emergence. And with the team only 4.5 games from a playoff spot, his continued hot streak could help the Red Sox sneak back into the playoff hunt.
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