Ceddanne Rafaela impressing early for the WooSox

In 60 games for the Sea Dogs this season, Rafaela batted .294/.332/.441 with 18 doubles, six home runs, 37 RBIs, 40 runs scored, an Eastern League-leading 30 stolen bases, 14 walks, and 55 strikeouts across 266 plate appearances.

Not only did he slug his first homer, but he flashed the leather in the field. While playing center field during Game 1 of Thursday’s doubleheader, Rafaela made nice grab on a sinking liner to rob a hit. 

He also showed off his versatility in the infield playing shortstop on Friday night. Known for his defensive prowess on the field, Rafaela made a nice diving stop and made a strong pop-up throw to first rob a base hit. 

The 5-foot-9, 165-pounder is one of the most exciting fielding defenders in the Red Sox organization. He was named the club’s Minor League Defensive Player of the Year in 2021 and 2022. Rafaela committed eight errors in 163 defensive chances.

Red Sox’ director of player development Brian Abraham has said Rafaela’s biggest key in his offensive development will be consistency. 

“His training off the field has been great,” said Abraham earlier this month. “It’s been consistent. He’s worked his butt off. He’s very aware of who he is and where he needs to go to have more success at the upper levels. He’s certainly pushing. He’s starting to show that he’s close to being ready for it.”

Rafaela has excelled through the Red Sox system over the last couple of seasons and is now one step closer from knocking on the door to Fenway Park. 

“My ride with the Red Sox has been great. I love it here," said Rafaela. "From the staff, to the players, it is great. Everything is great here. Moving up the rankings I don’t really let it get to my head, I stay humble and play my game and give it my all every single time I step on the field regardless if it practice or the actual game. It is an awesome feeling of getting closer to your goal, it’s impossible to explain, it’s like your hard work is paying off, the hard work is not done, but you get a little boost along the way. It’s just awesome.”