With just 21 games played for the Red Sox this season—half of which came in the last two weeks when Boston was eliminated from playoff contention—the 28-year-old slugger spent the most of the season with Triple-A Worcester.
Going into a new season, Alex Cora is keeping an eye on Dalbec despite his lack of stature in the club.
According to Christopher Smith of MassLive, Cora told reporters Tuesday from JetBlue Park that “he has a chance to make this team.” “I believe adaptability is starting to show itself. We prefer the outfield play, I believe. He performed admirably in Triple-A. Although the stadium’s layout is obviously different in Triple-A, he performed admirably. We also require a right-handed batter who can.
Dalbec could back up Rafael Devers and Triston Casas as a corner infielder; Justin Turner did this last season when he wasn’t the team’s designated hitter. Dalbec hit 33 home runs with Worcester last season but only batted.204 with one round tripper in 49 at-bats with the Red Sox. Turner last month signed a free agent contract with the Toronto Blue Jays.
The right-hander was a regular in Boston’s lineup not so long ago. With the Red Sox, Dalbec participated in 133 games in 2021 and batted.240 with 25 home runs and 78 RBIs as part of a squad that advanced to the American League Championship Series.
The following season, Dalbec played in 117 games, but his at-bat performance drastically deteriorated until the Red Sox optioned him to Triple-A.
Dalbec has mostly stayed put ever since, but if he can get back to his previous level at bat, there might be a spot on the Red Sox this season. At least Cora is leaving the possibility open.
