For the Boston Red Sox, the start of the 2022 season has not gone as planned. Through the season’s first 18 games, Boston has gone 8-10. While the season is far from over, they have a smaller margin for error this year in a more competitive division. One key piece that has struggled mightily so far is Bobby Dalbec.
In 16 games this year, the former fourth-round pick has posted a .169 average. Through 60 plate appearances, Dalbec has more strikeouts than hits. As the Red Sox offense has lacked the power it showed last year, Dalbec only has three extra-base hits. His disappointing start at the plate has also affected his defense.
On Monday night, the Red Sox entered the eighth inning tied with Toronto at two. After the first batter of the inning reached, Bradley Zimmer hit a swinging bunt down the first baseline. The play should have been a routine out, but Dalbec drooped the throw from reliever Matt Strahm. Two batters later, the Blue Jays had all the momentum a 6-2 lead thanks to a grand slam from Bo Bichette. It was the second time in the last week that Dalbec was involved in a defensive miscue that cost the Red Sox dearly.
Running Out of Time
Although the Red Sox have plenty of time to turn it around, Dalbec does not. Triston Casas is only one call away in Worcester and is currently hitting .262. He is the top first base prospect in baseball and already has 12 runs batted in this season. For Dalbec, his time to prove that he belongs in the majors is now.
During his first full MLB season, Dalbec hit 25 home runs and 21 doubles. After struggling in the first half, he turned his season around after the trade deadline. In 195 at-bats during the second half, his offense improved, and he hit the ball with more authority. That is the player Dalbec will need to be as the Red Sox offense looks for a spark.
Entering play on Tuesday, the Red Sox had only hit one home run in their past seven games. In order to get back on track, Boston needs power threats like Dalbec to improve. He showed last year that for stretches he can be a potent bat. With the season still less than a month old, the Seattle native will still get an opportunity to break out of his slump. Regardless of Casas’ talent, his debut is not expected to come until the summer. Until then, Boston will be looking for Dalbec to rediscover his swing. If he can, the Red Sox offense will get a much-needed boost.
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