What The Marrero Pick May Say About Iglesias

Associated Press Photo

When the Red Sox snared Arizona State shortstop Deven Marrero with their first pick (#24 overall) in the MLB Draft, he wasn't supposed to be available. Although he struggled with his offense over the last couple of years, Marrero was still considered by most to be in the Top Ten of this draft crop. His defensive skills are unquestioned, and Red Sox brass are not worried by his declining batting average. They point to an injury and the switch over to different bat specifications in the collegiate ranks.

But the fact that Boston took a plus defending shortstop begs the question of where Jose Iglesias (ranked as the #4 Sox prospect) stands in the organization's plans—and to a lesser degree Xander Bogaerts (ranked #2) and Jose Vinicio (ranked #22). Bogaerts is already charted to transition to third base, so he is less of an issue.

But, this draft suggests the Red Sox may be ready to move on from Iglesias—perhaps packaging him in a larger deal with Youkilis. Before hitting the disabled list with back issues, Iglesias was displaying an offensive resurgence—moving his average up to a respectable .269. This can only enhance his trade value. Boston's scouts seem to think that—long term—Marrero has a better chance to be an impact shortstop both offensively and defensively. Stay tuned.