Boston Red Sox outfielder Roman Anthony had a standout rookie year despite limited play, finishing third in the AL Rookie of the Year race. The 21-year-old posted impressive stats in 71 games before a left oblique strain sidelined him. His performance places him among rare young hitters in baseball history.
Roman Anthony debuted for the Red Sox on June 9 and played 71 games, batting .292/.396/.463 with a 140 OPS+, eight home runs, 18 doubles, and 32 RBIs. He recorded 303 plate appearances and 3.1 WAR, bolstered by strong outfield defense and baserunning. A slow start saw him go 5-for-44 in his first 15 games at Fenway Park, but he rebounded strongly. The injury ended his season after September 2.
Anthony, MLB Pipeline's No. 1 prospect at callup, signed a $130 million extension and won't turn 22 until May. His rookie marks make him the 14th AL/NL hitter age 21 or younger since 1900 to achieve at least 250 plate appearances, .375 OBP, and 130 OPS+.
Historical comps fall into groups. Hall of Famers include Tim Raines (1981), Frank Robinson (1956), Stan Musial (1942), Ted Williams (1939), and Heinie Manush (1923). Musial's .397 OBP, .490 SLG, and 151 OPS+ closely mirror Anthony's, though Musial played a full season with 536 plate appearances and 10 home runs.
Modern stars like Juan Soto (2018, .292 average, .406 OBP, 142 OPS+ at age 19), Mike Trout (2012, AL ROY), and Albert Pujols (2001, NL ROY) also align. Soto's lower strikeout rate (20.0% vs. Anthony's 27.7%) highlights his edge.
Others include Fernando Tatis Jr. (2019) and Jason Heyward (2010), who set high bars but faced challenges. Heyward's 131 OPS+ was a career high, yet he amassed over 40 WAR.
Careers derailed by injury or issues: Carlos May (1969), Curt Blefary (1965), Hal Trosky (1934). Health remains key for Anthony, but his rookie year suggests stardom ahead.