Red Sox's Ceddanne Rafaela: Will begin season in Double-A

Rafaela will begin the 2023 season with Double-A Portland, Gabrielle Starr of the Boston Herald reports.

Many expected Rafaela to open in Triple-A after he finished the 2022 campaign with the Sea Dogs, but the 22-year-old will get more action in the Eastern League before moving on to Triple-A. A source tells Starr that the organization wants the right-handed hitter to work on his approach at the plate without having to adjust to the higher level. Even with the outfielder opening the season in Double-A, there's a chance Rafaela spends time with the major-league club before the season comes to a close.