MLB Rumors: Gary Sanchez ‘disappointed’, Red Sox prospect fast track, Tigers reeling
By Mark Powell
MLB Rumors: Alex Cora hints Marcelo Mayer could skip a step
The Boston Red Sox shortstop of the future is headed to Double-A. It’s a major step in Marcelo Mayer’s progression, and a sign that he’s not far from the big leagues after all. While the natural progression of things would be Triple-A following a Double-A stint, Alex Cora isn’t sold that it’s completely necessary.
“We’ve seen guys making that jump,” Cora told MassLive’s Christopher Smith on Tuesday. “I’m not saying that’s where we’re at. But it’s the reality of the business. He keeps pushing and we’re gonna keep challenging him. It’s going to be a challenge.”
Mayer is the second-youngest player in the Eastern League following his promotion, so the Sox will likely give him plenty of time to adjust. Struggles are to be expected, and eventually, adjustments will be necessary.
Mayer wouldn’t be the first Boston prospect to skip Triple-A. Andrew Benintendi and Yoán Moncada did the same thing, and both are regular starters in the majors at this point in their careers.
“He’s a good player, man,” Cora said at Fenway Park on Tuesday. “He’s a good player, a good kid. He understands who he is. Tools-wise, he’s really good. Everyone has seen the offensive part of it but the defense is solid. We had him a few times in spring training in the dugout and he’s a good baseball player. He understands. He communicates. He’s a leader, too.”
Mayer, who was drafted fourth overall, is one of the top prospects in all of baseball.