Projected PawSox 2009- Jeff Bailey

No active player has spent more time with the PawSox then Jeff Bailey.  2009 will mark Bailey’s fourth full season with the squad.  He has actually had stints in Pawtucket going back to 2004.

As of this writing Bailey is in Big League camp, battling Brad Wilkerson and Paul McAnulty for a spot on the Boston bench until the rehabbing Mark Kotsay returns sometime in May.  He is currently not a member of the Red Sox’ 40 man roster.

There is no doubt Bailey can lay claim to getting his chance to compete for a job in Boston.  He is the reigning International League MVP, batting .301 with 25 homers and 75 RBI’s in 109 games with Pawtucket.  In 27 games with the Red Sox Bailey batted .280 with 2 homers and 6 RBI’s.

Signed as a minor league free agent after being drafted in the second round of the 1997 draft by the Marlins and also spending time in the Expos organization, Bailey has proven to be a reliable professional ballplayer.  Along with averaging 20+ home runs a season in Pawtucket, Bailey also has a high on-base percentage….405 last year with the PawSox.

Although not known for his defense, Bailey can play the corner outfield positions and first base.  He has also spent time as DH.  And in a pinch he is capable of being a team’s emergency catcher.

Expect Bailey to spend a majority of the 2009 campaign back in Pawtucket.  Although he may get more looks in Boston if the need arises.

Photo courtesy of Pawsox via Sons of Sam Horn