Pablo Sandoval, the San Francisco Giants beloved third baseman, agreed to sign with the Boston Red Socks; both parties agreed to a 5-year, $95 million contract. This ends a 7-year run with the San Francisco Giants where he was part of three World Series teams; he was World Series MVP in 2012.
The question now is, how will he perform in Boston?
The biggest issue with Sandoval has always been his weight. Far too many times he has shown up to Spring Training out of shape. Granted, he showed up in good shape this past season, and even though he gained some weight during the season, he played some great defense.
But Sandoval is almost 30 years old, and this is the point in his career where nutrition and exercise become key. There has to be a giant concern as he gets older whether his body can maintain playing third base. There’s a good chance Boston might have to make him a designated hitter.
If there’s one thing you can’t take away from Sandoval, it is his postseason resume. He has a batting average in his three postseason appearances of .344 with 6 home runs and 20 runs batted in (RBIs), according to baseball-reference.
Sandoval has been inconsistent in the regular season. He goes through stretches where he is really good or really bad. When you are awarded a near $100 million contract, you are expected to be consistent throughout the regular season.
Another factor on Sandoval’s success in Boston is how he adjusts to the new fan base.
It’s no secret that Sandoval was one of the most popular players on the Giants.
While Boston has a tremendous fan base of their own, every fan base is different. He seems like someone who cares how he is perceived by the fans, and it might take some time adjusting to the Red Sox fans.
Pablo has been a spectacular player to watch in San Francisco, and he has given the city of San Francisco a lot. He has not only helped deliver multiple World Series to San Francisco, but he never hesitated to assist local underprivileged children through his charity, Panda Kids Foundation.
But he might be exiting his prime; once you get near thirty, you need to start taking care of your body. Sandoval has given no indication that he keeps his body in top condition.
Sandoval could prove me wrong, however; to me all signs point to him becoming a slightly above average designated hitter. He didn’t get a near $100 million dollar contract to hold that role.