Projected PawSox 2009- Ivan Ochoa

We’ve talked about how there will be some new names competing to fill the positions in the PawSox infield this season.  One of those players battling for a spot is Ivan Ochoa.

The undrafted minor league free agent joins Gil Velazquez, Nick Green, Angel Chavez, and Jeff Natale as all who may see playing time patroling the PawSox infield dirt.  Green is expected to start the season in Boston as an infield back-up until the return of Julio Lugo.

Ochoa was a non-roster invitee to Red Sox camp but is not a member of Boston’s 40-man roster.

Ochoa signed with the Cleveland Indians in 2001 and spent his first six seasons in the Indians minor league organization.  He was acquired by the Giants organization prior to the 2007 season and primarily spent his time at AAA Fresno of the Pacific Coast League.

Over the last two minor league seasons Ochoa has averaged .307 with a combined 9 home runs and 52 RBI’s.  He made his Big League debut last season for San Francisco, batting .200 with 3 RBI’s in 47 games off the bench.

Primarily a shortstop Ochoa has also played second base during his professional career.  He has good speed and excellent range.

Not in the immediate plans for the Red Sox, Ochoa should get a decent amount of playing time in Pawtucket.