It’s uncommon for a seasoned Major League Baseball player to make such a bold statement as Boston Red Sox infielder Abraham Toro did recently. In an interview with Christopher Smith from MassLive, Toro, now in his seventh MLB season and first with the Red Sox, declared that Roman Anthony, Boston’s top prospect according to MLB Pipeline, is the finest minor league hitter he’s ever observed.

“I don’t say this lightly — I believe he’s [Anthony] the best minor league hitter I’ve encountered,” Toro shared with Smith. “I think he has the potential to be an MLB superstar. His current performance is indicative of that.” Toro’s glowing evaluation of Anthony sets high expectations and invites significant player comparisons.

Smith noted that Toro once played alongside Chicago Cubs star and former Houston Astros prospect Kyle Tucker in the minors. Red Sox supporters eagerly anticipate Anthony’s potential MLB debut, as the 20-year-old is currently hitting .305/.419/.514 with five home runs and only four more strikeouts (26) than walks (22) this season at Triple-A Worcester.

Toro had a firsthand view of Anthony’s performances, having played 28 games with Triple-A Worcester before his May 3 promotion to the Red Sox. Anthony, a left-handed hitter, has directed nine of his 11 extra-base hits this season to either center or left field.

“What impressed me most is that it’s rare to see young players hitting for power to the opposite field,” Toro remarked to Smith about Anthony’s hitting prowess. “And he maintains that approach. He’s not really trying to pull the ball. When he does, it’s almost accidental.” Anthony remains at Triple-A Worcester for now, but if he continues this level of offensive output, the Red Sox might soon find themselves compelled to promote him.