Roman Anthony is making a strong impression on Boston Red Sox hitting coach Pete Fatse, who enthusiastically described the rookie outfielder as a “stud.” Anthony, who debuted at 21 years and 27 days old, is drawing comparisons to another young star, James Wood, who was recently celebrated for being selected to participate in the Home Run Derby.
Wood, who made his MLB debut at a similar age, faced his own challenges when starting his career, going through struggles that ultimately shaped him into one of baseball’s brightest new talents. This is something that resonates with Anthony, as he navigates his initial time in the majors, and both players have had to deal with doubts surrounding their abilities. Wood faced scrutiny after a tough senior year at IMG Academy, while Anthony was questioned regarding his power to justify his position in the outfield.
Despite their different paths, both players share a mentality that embraces the learning process in the big leagues. Anthony has been optimistic and steady in his approach, maintaining confidence in his skills even amidst struggles at the plate. He is currently working through his own early challenges, hitting .200 with a .637 OPS over his first 80 plate appearances. Fatse has shown faith in Anthony, batting him high in the order frequently, which reflects the organization’s belief in his potential.
As Anthony continues to develop, there is a sense of hope that he could follow in Wood’s footsteps, perhaps earning recognition in the future that could lead to a Home Run Derby appearance himself. This anticipation speaks volumes about his talent and the faith that the Red Sox coaching staff has in him.
For baseball fans, this narrative of young players rising through adversity is inspiring. It reminds them that every great player has faced challenges on their journey, and with perseverance, the rewards of success can be realized.