Red Sox Reportedly Keeping Two Top Prospects In Boston, Demote Young Speedster

The Boston Red Sox seemingly are about to begin a "let the kids play" movement as their postseason hopes dwindle by the day.

At this point, there is nearly zero chance that the Red Sox play another meaningful baseball game in 2023. With that in mind, they might as well see what a pair of top prospects are capable of in the final 28 games of the season.

The Red Sox's No. 3 prospect, versatile Ceddanne Rafaela, received his first taste of big-league action against the Houston Astros this week and will be sticking with the team in Kansas City to take on the Royals according to MLB.com's Ian Browne.

Boston also reinstated outfielder Wilyer Abreu from the paternity list. Middle infielder David Hamilton was optioned to Triple-A Worcester as a corresponding move according to the club.

With Rafaela's super-utility versatility, it allowed Boston to keep both him and Abreu on the roster. That news is very exciting, as both players have been racking for the WooSox and could be a part of a new young core should they pan out.

Rafaela hit .302 with 54 extra-base hits including 20 home runs, 79 RBIs and .869 OPS in 108 games between Double-A Portland and Triple-A Worcester. He also recorded 36 steals in 49 attempts and is said to be a Gold-Glove-caliber defender in the outfield as well as a plus defender in the infield.

Abreu hit .274 with 34 extra-base hits including 22 home runs, 65 RBIs and a .929 OPS in 86 games for Triple-A Worcester. The 24-year-old is the No. 17 prospect in the system according to MLB Pipeline.

While the Red Sox's postseason hopes are little to none, there is still a reason to watch as the season comes to a close.