The Sox have an interesting player on their hands in the form of Josh Reddick.

At 24 years of age this season, Reddick is nearing his prospect shelf-life. Sox brass are going to have to come to a decision soon about what to do with the talented outfielder and by soon I mean this year or next at the latest.

Pros: Sweet swing with natural power from the left side. Exisiting power in his bat that can actually improve with his frame. Above-average defensive outfielder with range and a plus arm (both strength and accuracy).

Cons: Reddick's main drawbacks, at least in past seasons, deal with limited plate discipline and pitch selection. So far this year he has show marked improvement in these areas.  

What to do?

1. Continue 2011 in Pawtucket with Sept call-up (most likely scenario). The drawback here is that the Sox hopefully will be in a pennant race and that's hardly the time to be working in a potential 2012 starter.

1a. Mid-season call-up due to injury (also fairly likely). With McDonald, Cameron and Drew an injury opportunity may and likely will occur at some point. Figure Reddick to be the option.

2. Trade. Reddick's resurgence this year could lead him to be part of a trade package as he is nearly ML ready.

3. Promotion: Outright promotion with a DFA or either McDonald or Cameron. This would place Reddick as the 4th/5th outfielder thus makes this an unlikely scenario. If he were a righty he could platoon with Drew a bit, but he swings from the same side.

2012

Drew becomes a FA next year and has hinted at retirement. Could Reddick be the heir apparent in RF? Something has got to give with Josh, because you do not see too many 25 year old "prospects" wallowing in AAA. The Sox need to see if he's going to be a David Murphy type or a Jay Bruce