Jeter Downs has impressed in the Arizona Fall League
Over the past year, Jeter Downs has seen his stock fall in the Red Sox farm system. After being acquired in the Mookie Betts trade, Downs came to Boston with high expectations. In 2021 he got his first taste of Triple-A action. The results were less than ideal as infield prospects such as Nick Yorke dazzled. Through the first few weeks of the Arizona Fall League, however, Downs is flashing his potential.
In 10 games, the former first-round pick is hitting .257. Downs has already forced 14 walks and only grounded into one double play. His power has also been on display as Downs has hit five home runs, including a grand slam. Over the past few weeks, the Red Sox fifth-best prospect has shown improved plate discipline and is getting on base.
Downs recent performance is a promising sign after his first season in Worcester. In 99 games, Downs hit .190 and struck out 131 times. His struggles continued in the field as Downs committed 12 errors while spending time at second base and shortstop. He was able to record 217 assists but grounded into a career-high seven double plays. In Arizona, Downs has been a different player.
What the future holds for Downs
Although Downs has committed four errors, he has made a few impressive plays in the field. He has shown improved range and homered in five straight games at one point. In 49 at-bats, he posted a 1.155 OPS and .469 on-base percentage. While Downs still needs more time in the minors, he is making the most of his time in Arizona.
Jeter Downs is shining on both sides of the ball in the Arizona Fall League.
While he struggled offensively in 2021, his defense and base running both improved.
He’s slashing .290/.500/.774/1.274 with 5 HR over 9 AFL games.#RedSox | #DirtyWater| #MLBpic.twitter.com/Yy5Dcc27iH
— Tyler Milliken (@tylermilliken_) October 30, 2021
With the offseason now in full swing, Downs could be a popular name in trade rumors. The Red Sox have a crowded infield with Marcelo Mayer and Nick Yorke ahead of Downs on their top 30 Prospects list. Next year, Mayer and Yorke are not expected to be on the major league roster, but their talent leaves Downs with little room for error. He could also be a trade piece as the Red Sox look to improve their pitching.
Regardless of what his future holds, Downs will be a player to keep an eye on this winter. His stock could rise in the coming months as rosters start to take shape. Having depth in the minors is always a good problem. Downs will also be looking to prove that he can be put 2021 in the rearview mirror and be part of the future in Boston.
-Jamie Gatlin ( JamieGatlin17 on Twitter)
Featured Image courtesy of Katie Morrison/ MassLive
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