AL East Round Up: What’s Left Edition

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Boston Red Sox

There really is not much to be happy about in Bean Town this September. The Red Sox have been eliminated from the post season race. Not that they were really in it. But, now it is official. Apparently, David Ortiz and Mike Napoli are playing with injuries. And, in case you’re wondering, no, it is not their ego. Napoli is still feeling the effects of dislocating his finger in April. And Big Papi has a sore foot. Oh, and Dustin Pedroia just had wrist surgery. So, the big boys are hurt. There is no Jon Lester. What is left for the Red Sox?

Sep 6, 2014; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox center fielder

Mookie Betts

(50) makes a diving catch during the eighth inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports

Mookie Betts. When he first came up, he manned center field. And, he did so with impressive speed and ability. Now, with Pedroia out, Betts will actually move back to his natural position, second base. The fact that he is a natural second baseman makes his play in center that much more impressive. The 21 year old is not looking lost at the plate, either. Unlike Jackie Bradley Jr, Betts has been able to hold his own. He’s slashing .283/.357/.442 with 4 home runs and 12 RBI in 39 games. He’s also chipped in 5 stolen bases. The rest of September should solidify his place on the Red Sox roster.

And, the big one: Rusney Castillo is on his way. The Cuban slugger that the Red Sox managed to sign for $72.5M made a stop in AAA. But, he could make an appearance at Fenway Park this September. With a Betts moving to 2nd, look for Castillo to take his place in CF. He’ll join fellow Cuban Yoenis Cespedes. That should make for a pretty potent duo for not only next season, but the remainder of September.