Former Red Sox Utility Player Surging For New Team; Quietly Becoming Everyday Starter
Former Red Sox Utility Player Surging For New Team; Quietly Becoming Everyday Starter originally appeared on NESN.
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The Boston Red Sox traded David Hamilton to the Milwaukee Brewers in the offseason, and as of late, he is surging at the plate.
Hamilton started just 49 games for the Red Sox last year. This season, he has already started 48 games for the Brewers in their 63 games. Hamilton’s overall offensive numbers were not great in Boston, and have not been the best in Milwaukee. However, recently, he has made great strides as a hitter and has basically become an everyday player for Pat Murphy.
Hamilton has started in the last 11 games. It’s not like he’s starting because Joey Ortiz or Luis Rengifo are hurt either. He has simply proven he’s the better hitter and has earned a spot in the lineup. The Brewers have been moving him around between shortstop and third base, and he has impressed defensively as well. However, the real surprise is what he’s done offensively in the 11 consecutive starts.
Hamilton is slashing .270/.341/.541 in his last 11 games and has hit three home runs. He also has a double, four stolen bases, four walks and three RBIs. The Brewers have been working on his swing all season, and they are finally seeing results.
All three of his home runs on the season have come in the last 11 games. Previously, he was finding his way into the lineup because of his speed and ability to bunt, which is something the Brewers do plenty of. Hamilton leads the league in bunt hits. Even that is a surprise considering he had just two bunt hits with the Red Sox in 204 games.
The Brewers have taken Hamilton and turned him into the type of player the Red Sox hoped he would be. Whatever adjustments they’ve made to his swing have resulted in more consistent power. The home runs are an indicator of that, but so are his exit velocities. The Brewers are one of the best teams in baseball right now, and Hamilton is a huge reason why.
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