Red Sox Legend Praises Wilyer Abreu's Defensive Prowess

Dwight Evans highlights Abreu's two Gold Gloves and elite skills in right field at Fenway Park

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Red Sox legend Dwight Evans, an eight-time Gold Glove winner, has praised Wilyer Abreu's exceptional defensive abilities as the team's current right fielder. Evans highlighted Abreu's determination, defensive instincts, and awareness of game situations, noting that the young player has already secured two Gold Gloves and established himself as one of the elite defenders at Fenway Park.

Why it matters

Abreu's defensive reputation is backed by advanced statistics, and his ability to navigate the challenging right field at Fenway Park could prove crucial for the Red Sox as they enter the 2025 season with optimism. Evans's mentorship and comparisons to greats like Mookie Betts suggest Abreu's potential to have a significant impact in the American League East race.

The details

Evans, now a spring training instructor, emphasized Abreu's preparation, anticipation, and hustle as key factors that help him manage the unique challenges of Fenway's right field. The instructor also reflected on the differences between modern defensive coaching and the observational skills required during his playing era, noting that Abreu's athleticism and instinct provide a strong foundation for potential greatness.

  • Dwight Evans made his comments during Red Sox spring training in Fort Myers, Florida.

The players

Dwight Evans

A legendary right fielder for the Boston Red Sox with an eight-time Gold Glove record, who is now a spring training instructor for the team.

Wilyer Abreu

The current right fielder for the Boston Red Sox, who has already secured two Gold Gloves and is considered one of the elite defenders at Fenway Park.

Mookie Betts

A former Red Sox player who won four Gold Gloves and is considered a foundational player for the organization.

Ceddanne Rafaela

The Red Sox center fielder, who is also showing strong defensive instincts according to Dwight Evans.

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What they’re saying

“He's got two Gold Gloves for a reason. He's a great, great player. He's special. He has fun playing the game, and that's a missing element for a lot of players. They're so serious, but he truly has a lot of fun. And he's fun to watch.”

— Dwight Evans, Instructor

“He goes hard and he hustles, but he's always anticipating. He's always ahead of the game.”

— Dwight Evans, Instructor

“He's given me a lot of good advice. He was the best ever playing there, so every time we talk, he's got some good tips, especially with the Pesky Pole, because that's the most difficult part to play, especially when the ball kicks off the wall with all the angles. He's told me how important it is to make quick decisions out there, when the ball is heading (to the area for the wall that juts out). It's either go back and wait for the ball, or come in and cut it off. That's the toughest call to make.”

— Wilyer Abreu, Right Fielder

What’s next

As the Red Sox prepare for the 2025 season, Wilyer Abreu's continued defensive excellence at Fenway Park, coupled with Dwight Evans's expert mentorship, positions the team well defensively in right field.

The takeaway

Wilyer Abreu's defensive prowess, backed by advanced metrics and the praise of Red Sox legend Dwight Evans, highlights the team's strong foundation in the outfield as they aim to compete in the American League East race.