AP Photo/Michael Dwyer

On this his 28th birthday, Brock Holt, aka BrockStar, is working his way back from a head injury that he suffered on May 10. The injury left Holt with a concussion and what was described as “mild” symptoms. He started taking batting practice and shagging balls in the outfield last week, but has yet to be cleared for a rehab assignment. Given the sensitivities around concussions, the Red Sox are using an over-abundance of caution when handling Holt’s return, but progress is progress.

The BrockStar was the Red Sox lone All-Star representative last year and was incredibly valuable throughout the season, despite a weak campaign overall from the team. His biggest value is in his ability to play every position on the diamond. He played every position in the field except catcher throughout the year, even DH’ing once, and making the transition – sometimes mid-game – seamlessly. His offensive numbers don’t jump out at you and Brock is not a superstar in the making, but he is an extremely important piece on a team with postseason aspirations.

Happy Birthday BrockStar, we hope to see you out there soon!