Meet Jonathan Van Every

If you’ve been following along with the box scores, you’ll notice a name in almost every one that you may not recognize: Jonathan Van Every. That’s because Van Every signed as a minor league free agent in December after being released by the Cleveland Indians. He’s a 6′ 1″, 28-year old lefty out of Jackson, Mississippi who is expected to play at Pawtucket and provide centerfield depth in the case of an injury to or trade of Jacoby Ellsbury or Coco Crisp. For what it’s worth, he’s now 5-19 (.263) with a double and a HR to his name this Spring.

Here’s what Van Every says about himself, in an interview with David Laurila:

I’m an extremely above-average defender who is capable of playing all three outfield positions. I would think that would be my main strength. As far as at the plate, I have plus power, but a lack of consistency has probably been my downfall in the past.

Van Every spent seven years in the Cleveland farm system, and was not a fast riser. His total minor league batting line stands at .257/.351/.477, and most recently he hit .344/.416/.583 in 151 AB at Double-A Akron and .272/.370/.468 in 158 AB at Triple-A Buffalo as a 27-year old. Van Every’s above-average OBP is probably what stands out most, though he does have decent power as well. His stolen base numbers have diminished in recent years, but he’s still a decent basestealer, with a career 70% success rate. Seems to have a great attitude, and is working really hard to impress the front office. He should provide some very solid depth, and I expect him to get the call at some point this year. Best of luck to you, Jonathan!