In retrospect, it seems hard to believe Betts never played the outfield until May 2014. But with second base blocked by veteran Dustin Pedroia and the Red Sox in need of an athletic outfielder, he was moved there -- first at Double-A Portland, then at Triple-A Pawtucket, finally in the majors.
In the last two seasons, he has successfully transitioned from second base to outfielder and somehow made the switch look easy. In what was his first full major-league season, Betts was the Red Sox' leadoff hitter and center fielder in 2015 and established himself as a key building block for the future. He led the Red Sox in doubles, run scored, triples and stolen bases, all the while contributing above-average defense in center. He was among the league leaders in any number of categories (doubles, extra-base hits, multi-hit games) and posted a 6.0 WAR, tied for sixth among American League players. And consider that he had the most extra-base hits for a Red Sox player under the age of 23 in 75 years.
Not even a concussion -- suffered after tumbling over the bullpen wall in pursuit of a fly ball -- could sidetrack Betts, who enjoyed a strong second half of the season. Last year, Betts played center almost exclusively, though with the re-emergence of Jackie Bradley Jr., Betts will be shifted to right field in 2016 and beyond. It's expected that he will continue to serve as the team's leadoff hitter. He's shown the ability to get on base regularly and is a threat to steal while on base.
FINAL RATING: All-Star | Vote now