Drew Benefits From Papi's Injury

When Boston Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz went down with a wrist injury on June 1, many in Boston were concerned that the Red Sox offense would not be able to score enough runs to compete in the ultra-competative American League East division. However, none other than Red Sox right fielder JD Drew has stepped in to fill Big Papi's large shoes as the Red Sox have not lost a step in their quest to defend their World Series title. Ever since Papi's injury, Drew has hit .337, with an on-base percentage of .462, 12 home runs, and 27 RBIs en route to an American League Player of the Month Award. Overall, Drew has risen his overall numbers to a .301 BA, a .408 OBP (3rd in AL), and a .570 slugging percentage(3rd in AL), along with his 16 home runs, and 51 RBIs. Drew also is now second in the AL in runs with 60. Drew has been a savor to the Red Sox season so far, however, with Ortiz out until at least after the All-Star break, Drew will need to continue his torrid pace to keep the Red Sox in the playoff hunt.

When the Red Sox first signed JD Drew in November 2006, many in Boston questioned his dedication to the game of baseball and wondered if he would be able to fit in and survive in ultra-competative Boston. In his first few months in Boston, Drew only confirmed what his doubters questioned as he struggled to adjust. However, Drew picked himself up in August and September to finish the season hitting a respectable .270 BA, a .373 OBP, a .423 slugging percentage, 11 home runs and 64 RBIs. Drew has picked up right where he left off in 2008, especially with Ortiz's injury, and is hitting better in every single category this season. Drew finally may be accustomed to be playing in Boston.

The Red Sox need and expect a lot from Drew if they want to be playing deep into October this season. If and when Ortiz comes back, Drew will have to slide back into the number 5 spot in the order, but he will need to continue the same production he has turned in throughout the season. For now, with Manny Ramirez in a slump for Boston, Drew will need to continue carrying the Red Sox as they attempt to chase the Tampa Bay Rays from first place in the AL East. If Drew can keep up his current pace, the Red Sox may enjoy another sweet taste of a World Series title in October this season.