When the Boston Red Sox traded Rafael Devers on Sunday, the team acquired four players who the front office believes will make major contributions to the organization.
With right-hander Jordan Hicks working his way back from a stint on the 15-day injured list, and southpaw Kyle Harrison yet to take the mound with Triple-A Worcester, the Red Sox new No. 6 ranked prospect James Tibbs III has already reported to Double-A Portland. He hasn’t wasted any time turning heads.
Following a 1-for-3 showing in Portland’s game Tuesday, Tibbs’ name was all over the box score during his third game with the Sea Dogs.
Earning the start in right field,Tibbs struck out in the first inning and grounded out to third base to begin the bottom of the fourth.
Tibbs’ bat finally came alive during the sixth inning when he laced a two-out single to center field. He scored two batters later on a three-run shot from Ronald Rosario.
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Tibbs would be issued a walk during his next at-bat in the eighth inning. Returning to the plate in the bottom of the ninth, Tibbs’ two-run double helped jump-start a Portland rally. He scored his second run of the game on an Allan Castro double, before Akron earned the third out of the inning and sealed a 7-6 victory.
Selected by the Giants 13th overall in last summer’s draft, Tibbs’ plus power was on full display during his collegiate career, evidenced by launching 28 home runs during his junior season at Florida State. Prior to Sunday’s trade, Tibbs was batting .246 with 10 home runs and 32 RBI for High-A Eugene.
