Rob Refsnyder, the Boston Red Sox outfielder, considered retirement last offseason but ultimately chose to continue his career. Now approaching his age-35 season, Refsnyder is optimistic about his future and aims for a return to baseball in 2026.
Rob Refsnyder’s Strong Performance
Recently reported by Alex Speier of The Boston Globe, Refsnyder has engaged in informal discussions with the Red Sox regarding his future. His performance in 2025 further solidified his decision to keep playing. He played 70 games, maintaining an impressive batting line of .269/.354/.484 over 209 plate appearances.
This season mirrored his successful 2024 campaign. In fact, over the last two seasons, Refsnyder achieved a combined batting average of .278 with a strong OBP of .357 and a slugging percentage of .476 across 163 games. He also hit 20 home runs and 28 doubles during this period, showcasing his strong offensive capabilities.
Statistical Overview
| Stat | 2025 Performance | Two-Year Average |
|---|---|---|
| Batting Average | .269 | .278 |
| On-Base Percentage | .354 | .357 |
| Slugging Percentage | .484 | .476 |
| Home Runs | — | 20 |
| Strikeout Rate | 25.6% | — |
| Walk Rate | 10.1% | — |
Platoon Advantage and Future Outlook
Refsnyder’s production against left-handed pitchers has been impressive, posting a .302 batting average and a 160 wRC+ over the last two years. Conversely, his performance against right-handers has been less effective, showing a declining trend with a .212 average and a 67 wRC+ in 2025.
Despite the challenges against right-handed pitching, Refsnyder is likely to attract interest as a valuable bench player. His overall contributions open the possibility for potentially larger roles, especially considering his reliable numbers from 2024.
Potential Teams for Refsnyder
As Refsnyder prepares for his next chapter, the Red Sox remain a fitting option due to their left-handed heavy outfield. His presence could significantly enhance the team’s offensive balance alongside players like Wilyer Abreu, Roman Anthony, Jarren Duran, and Masataka Yoshida.
Other teams that may consider Refsnyder include:
- Arizona Diamondbacks: With a similar left-handed outfield mix, they might see Refsnyder as a strategic addition.
- Chicago Cubs: They could utilize him as a platoon partner to strengthen their lineup.
- Kansas City Royals and Cleveland Guardians: Both teams are looking to enhance their outfield production and may view Refsnyder as a cost-effective solution.
As Rob Refsnyder aims for a return to baseball in 2026, his strong performance and potential fit with various teams keep him in the conversation for next season’s roster moves.
