Farrell impressed with Bogaerts' bat, glove

BOSTON -- It may be just three games into the season, but manager John Farrell is already impressed with the play of shortstop Xander Bogaerts.

"Xander has gotten off to a great start and looks very confident and comfortable in the field," said Farrell.

Coming into Friday's game, the 21-year-old Bogaerts was batting .556 (5-for-9) with one double. He's also made a few stellar plays at shortstop. Farrell pointed out a play in Thursday's 4-3 win over the Orioles when Bogaerts cut down the lead runner in the eighth inning by going to his backhand side.

"He looks very comfortable at shortstop," said Farrell. "All of the work he did early in Spring Training has helped. He's made a number of plays showing very good range.

"He anticipates well. He knows where he is going once the ball comes off the bat. It is more the fundamental ability to not rush the play when the pressure is on and just let his natural abilities take over."

Bogaerts played an important role for the club at the end of last season and into the playoffs after he was called up from the Minors in August.

"You still marvel at a guy who has less than 100 Major League at-bats and the way he looks," Farrell said. "The talent is there, along with the work ethic. He'll have some ups and downs along the way, but he's come out very strong."