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Franklin Arias: Red Sox Prospect's Power Surge

Boston Red Sox News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!·Apr 22, 2026·1:41

About this Episode

Franklin Arias, a 20-year-old Venezuelan shortstop, has transformed from a glove-first player to a power hitter in the Red Sox minor league system. Currently leading all qualified minor leaguers in average (.457), slugging (.857), and OPS (1.402), Arias has already smashed four home runs in just eleven games. His impressive performance this season, including a .500 slash line against right-handers, has caught the attention of Bostons player development director, who attributes Arias newfound power to offseason bulking and improved pitch selection. If Arias continues on this trajectory, he could quickly ascend to the major leagues and make a significant impact.

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Transcript

On April 22nd, Franklin Arya signed with the Red Sox as a glove first shortstop back in 2023, but man, that label doesn't fit anymore.

The 20-year-old Venezuelan is now MLB's number 26 prospect, tearing it up in AA with Portland.

Just Tuesday, he smashed his fourth Homer in five games during a 9-7 loss to Hartford, going two for five in his sixth multi-hit game this season.

His numbers are straight fire. He's leading all qualified minor leagueers with a 457 average, 857 slugging, and a 140.

Two OPS. That's after his latest game actually dropped that average a bit.

He has just five strikeouts so far, second-fewest in the Eastern League, and he's feasting on right handers with a 500-slash line over. 26 at bats.

Arya's has always handled older competition well, hitting over 300 twice in three pro seasons and staying top 10 in the system for average.

But this power is brand new. He never tops nine homers before, yet he has four already through 11 games. On pace, he could shatter his career high if he plays a full slate.

Earlier this week, Boston's player development director Brian Abraham broke it down to MLB.com.

He said Arya's bulked up in the offseason for better bat speed, more barrels and louder contacts, plus sharper pitch selection to drive balls, pull side.

If this hot streak is him still raw, pitchers better watch out. Arya's lets ready to climb fast and light up the big soon.

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