On Wednesday afternoon, the Boston Red Sox signed Yolmer Sánchez to a minor league contract. The deal also includes an invitation to major-league spring training. While Sanchez spent last season in Triple-A, he has appeared in 657 games in the majors. He has never been known for his bat but won the AL Gold Glove at second in 2019. When baseball does resume, he will be looking to prove that he belongs on an MLB roster.
After making his MLB debut for the White Sox in 2014, Sánchez has posted a .245 batting average in seven seasons. The Venezuelan native also has 215 runs batted in that span. While he doesn’t hit for much power, the 29-year-old led the league in triples in 2018 with 10. Sánchez’s calling card, however, has always been his defense and versatility.
In seven major league seasons, Sánchez has posted a .982 fielding percentage. The veteran infielder has committed 42 errors in that span and turned 330 double plays. If he does make the opening day roster, his success defensively would be beneficial for the Red Sox, who struggled in the field last season. In 2021, the Red Sox’s depth was tested, and Sánchez can play almost every position.
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Spring Training Expectations
While baseball is currently in a lockout, the Red Sox now have eight non-roster invites for spring training. Sánchez has spent the most time in the majors of the group and brings postseason experience. From 2017 to 2019, he also posted a .251 batting average and proved to be a solid utility piece. The Red Sox are hoping that he can return to that form as Sánchez will be looking to make his first appearance in the majors since 2020 when he hit .313 in 12 games.
Regardless of when spring training starts, Sánchez will be highly motivated. In 102 games last season, he posted a .216 average and struck out 88 times. The White Sox product now has a chance to start over with the Red Sox if he can show improvement offensively. In a crowded infield full of talent, he will be looking to make his mark after stints with the Giants and Braves.
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