Danny Jansen is set to make baseball history by playing for both teams in a game when he catches for the Boston Red Sox on Monday. This will occur during a rescheduled matchup against the Toronto Blue Jays, originally suspended on June 26 due to rain.
Boston manager Alex Cora announced on Friday, before the Red Sox’s 12-2 defeat to Arizona, “He’s catching. Let’s make history.” Jansen was about to bat for the Blue Jays when the game was halted, and it will now be part of a doubleheader on Monday.
Jansen expressed his excitement, saying, “I’m not sure if it’s fully hit me yet. It’s definitely a cool thing and I’m very grateful. I didn’t expect to be the first one to do it, given how long the game has been around. It’s a rare and unique event in this sport.” The Red Sox traded for Jansen, 29, on July 27.
While the Red Sox boast an impressive young offensive core, their chances of contending for a title remain uncertain due to concerns with their pitching staff.
To become a genuine World Series contender, the Red Sox will need to upgrade their rotation and find a dependable ace. One suggestion from baseball writer Rick McNair of FanSided is to consider trading rookie Ceddanne Rafaela for top-tier pitching.
McNair proposed that the Red Sox might trade Rafaela, who has shown exceptional defensive skills and improving plate discipline, for an elite pitcher.
At just 23, Rafaela has made a name for himself with his defensive versatility in center field and shortstop, and could be a valuable piece for the Red Sox or an attractive trade chip. Moving him, though uncommon, might be a strategic move in a broader offseason plan.
