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Can Red Sox's New Leadoff Hitter Spark Skidding Lineup Vs. Yankees?
TL;DR
Ceddanne Rafaela will bat leadoff for the Boston Red Sox against the Yankees, replacing Roman Anthony due to back soreness. This marks Rafaela's first time in the leadoff spot this season.
Key points
- Ceddanne Rafaela replaces Roman Anthony in the leadoff spot
- Rafaela usually bats at the bottom of the order
- This is Rafaela's first time batting leadoff this season
Ceddanne RafaelaRoman AnthonyBoston Red SoxNew York Yankees
Boston Red Sox outfielder Ceddanne Rafaela
Can Red Sox's New Leadoff Hitter Spark Skidding Lineup Vs. Yankees? originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Ceddanne Rafaela usually bats at the bottom of the order for the Boston Red Sox. But on Wednesday, he'll hit at the top of it instead.
With Roman Anthony sidelined by back soreness, Rafaela will replace him in the leadoff spot. It's Rafaela's first time batting there this season and only his second time batting higher than sixth.
The 25-year-old outfielder is one of the few Red Sox position players who have avoided a slow start this season, batting .288/.373/.379 with four extra base hits, seven RBI andĀ 10 runs through 22 games.
Rafaela's riding a four-game hitting streak and has shown improved plate discipline this year, flashing a career-bestĀ 6.7 percent walk rate.
Alex Cora is hoping Rafaela can stay hot and get Boston's offense going. The Red Sox have been in a major funk lately, scoring two runs or less in four of their last five games.
Q&A
Why is Ceddanne Rafaela batting leadoff for the Red Sox?
Ceddanne Rafaela is batting leadoff due to Roman Anthony being sidelined with back soreness.
How many times has Ceddanne Rafaela batted higher than sixth in the lineup?
This is only the second time Ceddanne Rafaela has batted higher than sixth in the lineup.
What impact could Rafaela's new batting position have on the Red Sox's performance?
Rafaela's new position could potentially spark the struggling Red Sox lineup as they face the Yankees.
