Red Sox Future Looks Bright

Last Fall, Red Sox Nation got a glimpse of the future when several top prospects were called to fill major league roles. In an extended stint last season, prospect Daniel Bard dazzled with his 100mph fastball and went from top prospect to bullpen ace by season's end. With spring training now underway in Fort Myers, Florida, Red Sox prospects get a chance to become fan favorites, but more importantly establish themselves as future contributors in the Red Sox system. If early indications mean anything, the Red Sox and their fans have plenty to be excited about.

Jose Iglesias - Shortstop - Age 20: Perhaps the most talked about prospect at Red Sox spring training is 20 year-old phenom Jose Iglesias. Signed from Cuba last September, Iglesias is quickly becoming a fan favorite. Since the early days of Nomar Garciaparra, the Red Sox have failed to put an everyday franchise shortstop on the field. Iglesias brings gold-glove caliber defense to the team, but has the potential to be a solid hitter as well. He possesses a strong throwing arm and good speed. At age 20, Iglesias is likely slated for AA Portland in 2010, but do not be surprised if he quickly escalates the majors by opening day 2011, or potentially even spot duty in 2010. From witness accounts, he may just be that good.

Josh Reddick - Outfielder - Age 23: Reddick made his major league debut for the Red Sox in 2009. Red Sox fans may remember him for the bizarre nosebleed incident in which he sprinted off the field to clog a bloody nose, then found himself as the leadoff hitter in the next inning. Reddick also impressed with his cannon for an arm and quick bat speed. Although Reddick is probably still a year or two away from being an everyday player, it is likely that he may wind up as J.D. Drew's eventual replacement in right field. Although he has decent power, Reddick could still use a little extra time in the weight room. His biggest weakness is likely plate discipline, which is a necessity to make the Red Sox lineup. He will look to improve that aspect of his game with plenty of AAA and occasional major league plate appearances in 2010.

Casey Kelly - Pitcher - Age 20: With young stars like Jon Lester, Clay Buchholz and Daniel Bard already on the major league roster, you have to wonder how much room will be available for Red Sox prospects to make the starting rotation. Kelly, however, quite possibly has to the tools to get it done as early as 2011. He doesn't possess the Daniel Bard 100mph fastball, but he has reached 92-94 mph with some consistency. Add to it that he throws a hard-breaking 12-6 curveball, and a bottom-dropping changeup, and you begin to realize what a special prospect Kelly is for the franchise. Although he has yet to face anything above A-ball hitting, expect Kelly to flourish at AA Portland in 2010 and possibly jump to AAA Pawtucket by the end of the season. You never know when a young pitcher might get a spot start for the Red Sox, so Red Sox Nation may get a chance to see the young pitching phenom earlier than expected.

Source: SoxProspects.com,Red Sox Prospects,Top Minor League Prospects