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Anthony Seigler has not received consistent opportunities with the Boston Red Sox, but he made sure his latest one counted.
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Seigler delivered the biggest hit of Boston’s 4-2 victory over the Miami Marlins on Monday, lining a go-ahead triple into the right-field corner in the ninth inning. Pinch runner Eli White scored from first base, and Nick Sogard followed with an RBI single to provide an insurance run. It was a significant moment for the Red Sox, who extended their winning streak to four games and improved to 72-59. It also offered another reminder of how valuable a prepared bench player can become during a playoff race.
Seigler had not appeared in a game since Aug. 16. Before that, the 27-year-old went five days without an appearance and had received only 29 at-bats during August.
None of that mattered when Boston needed him Monday.
Anthony Seigler Stayed Ready For His Opportunity
Seigler stepped into the box with the game tied at two and the potential winning run at first. Miami reliever Tyler Zuber had just replaced closer Pete Fairbanks, who exited after experiencing numbness and nerve irritation in his throwing arm.
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Rather than allowing the unusual pitching change or his limited recent workload to disrupt him, Seigler drove Zuber’s offering toward the right-field line.
His first triple of the season could not have arrived at a better time. The hit represented Seigler’s only knock in three at-bats, but he also worked a walk and scored one of Boston’s four runs. He finished the night with a 1.500 OPS and did not strike out.
That type of performance is exactly what teams need from players who occupy the final few spots on a roster. Seigler cannot control how frequently his name appears in the lineup, but he can remain prepared for the next chance. Monday’s game showed that he has done exactly that.
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Seigler Has Provided Useful Depth For Red Sox
Seigler entered Tuesday batting .254 with three home runs, 13 RBIs and a .740 OPS over 45 games this season. He has collected 36 hits in 142 at-bats, including 12 doubles and one triple. Those numbers become more encouraging when considering the inconsistent nature of his role. Seigler has started at times, entered games off the bench and gone extended stretches without receiving an at-bat.
He played in 19 games during July but received only 73 at-bats. His opportunities became even more limited in August, yet he has produced eight hits, four walks and four RBIs in 29 at-bats. His .276 average and .801 OPS this month suggest he has found a way to stay sharp. Seigler also has provided Boston with defensive flexibility. The former first-round pick began his professional career as a catcher but has expanded his responsibilities around the infield. That versatility makes it easier for manager Alex Cora to find creative ways to use him.
His season has included flashes of considerable offensive upside as well.
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Seigler went 4-for-5 with a home run, two doubles and two RBIs against the Toronto Blue Jays on July 24. He also drove in three runs during Boston’s 13-inning win over the Chicago White Sox on Aug. 6. Those performances have been separated by quiet stretches and limited playing time. Seigler nevertheless has continued to contribute when called upon.
A role player will not always receive advance notice before his biggest opportunity. Seigler received his Monday night and delivered a swing that helped Boston secure another important road victory.
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