Red Sox Farm Director Explains Top Prospect's Ridiculous Start At Double-A

Red Sox Farm Director Explains Top Prospect's Ridiculous Start At Double-A originally appeared on NESN . Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here .

The Boston Red Sox haven't had much good news involving the Major League team this season. Thankfully, there's some good news down on the farm to report.

Franklin Arias, the Red Sox's No. 2 prospect behind Payton Tolle , is off to an excellent start for Double-A Portland. Through 10 games, the 20-year-old shortstop is batting .467/.564/.833 with two doubles, three homers, nine RBIs, five walks and just three strikeouts.

If Arias keeps hitting like that, he could reach the Major Leagues later this year.

Boston’s senior director of player development, Brian Abraham, recently spoke to MLB.com's Ian Browne about Arias's exciting growth and fast start.

"He’s done a good job adding weight and strength, which has translated into more consistent impact on the baseball -- bat speed, more barrels and overall louder contact," Abraham told Browne. "The other key focus has been improving his pitch selection, targeting the right pitches he can drive in the air to the pull side. While the goal is for him to be a complete hitter, we know more impact comes when he’s pulling the ball in the air for damage."

Abraham also described Arias' advanced offensive approach and ceiling.

"As described, he profiles as a complete hitter -- someone who gets on base, makes consistent contact and demonstrates strong pitch selection," Abraham continued. "He has the ability to use the entire field, with his greatest damage coming when he’s able to pull the ball in the air. Overall, he’s the type of player who can impact the game in a variety of ways and do a little bit of everything at the plate."

Arias is a great defender, too, and Abraham also touched on his fielding.

"It’s only been a short amount of time, but we continue to see him not only make the routine play, but continue to improve his range and out conversion," Abraham added. "He prides himself on being a strong defender up the middle and his added strength and already strong athleticism have allowed that to continue to progress."

Based on those descriptions, Arias sounds similar to Xander Bogaerts and seems like a future star. The future looks bright for him, especially if he continues to build off his impressive start for the Sea Dogs.

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