The Boston Globe

Boom or Bust: Andrew Benintendi

Max Furbee Blocked Unblock Follow Following Jan 30, 2017

Welcome to the latest iteration of Boom or Bust. Today, we are going to take a look at 2016's highest rated prospect — Boston’s Andrew Benintendi!

Benintendi is a toolsy outfielder from the University of Arkansas, drafted by the Red Sox with the 7th overall pick in the 2015 MLB Draft. As an advanced college hitter, Benintendi moved quickly through the Red Sox system and reached the Major Leagues for 34 games this past season. Benintendi has excelled at every level he has played in thus far, winning the prestigious golden spikes award in 2015 and peppering numerous top-prospect lists since his start in professional baseball.

Strengths

Benintendi is the definition of an all-round talent. He grades out as average or better across the board, with his major calling card being his ability at the plate. Utilizing an upright stance and an easy left-handed stroke that allows him to generate lift with above-average power, Benintendi has already proved himself as a hitter. The back of Benitendi’s baseball card already has some very impressive stats. He destroyed the minors in 97 games last season, posting a robust .312/.378/.532 slash line before getting the call to the major leagues. He more than held his own in his limited time with the big club as well, posting a .295/.359/.476 line over 105 at-bats. As a gifted runner, Benintendi should be able to develop as a serviceable fielder in any outfield position. He has been able to utilize his speed on the base paths as well, amassing 16 steals during his time in the minors. All signs point towards him being able to steal 20 bags or more at the major league level.

Weaknesses

In his brief stint with the Red Sox, Benintendi performed very well. But there are some alarming stats that could spell issues. Benintendi has always been a patient hitter, walking more than he struck out in his minor league career. However, when he reached the major leagues, he struck out 21.2% of the time — more than double his minor league rate. Benintendi’s BABIP was also upwards of .360, significantly higher than the league average and the rate he posted in the minors. All of these stats could indicate a regression for Benintendi if his approach does not improve.

Some questions also arose about Benintendi’s defensive play after his time in the majors last season. Playing primarily left field, Benintendi’s routes were often subpar, causing various mistakes in the difficult left field at Fenway Park. A full season of preparation on his routes and read should allow him to improve significantly, since Benintendi has the athleticism to play any outfield position. Benintendi’s weakest asset is his arm, which likely makes him ideal to stay in left field.

Verdict

There is certainly much to like about Benintendi. With all of the tools he possesses, he appears to be a rare high floor/high ceiling prospect. Based on his past production at the major and minor league levels, it appears likely Benintendi will flourish for the Red Sox sooner rather than later.