Players of the Week, 7/11-7/17: David Chester & Keith Couch

Two prospects from the lower reaches of the Red Sox system are this week's SoxProspects Players of the Week. Rookie-Gulf Coast League's David Chester had the backing of over two-thirds of the community, earning him Player of the Week honors. Keith Couch's brilliant start for Low-A Greenville propelled him to Pitcher of the Week honors.

Chester, 22, was selected by the Red Sox in the 33rd round of the 2011 amateur draft. The 6'5", 270 pound first baseman continued to mash opposing pitching, hitting .440/.464/1.080 with 5 home runs, 6 runs scored and 11 RBI last week. The impressive showing at the plate continued a hot month of July for Chester, who has hit .308/.339/.654 so far this month. Since making his professional debut, Chester has hit .235/.292/.481 with 5 home runs and 13 RBI.

Couch, 21, was a 13th round selection in last year's amateur draft. After having a solid debut season for Lowell in 2010, Couch has been an integral member of Greenville's rotation in 2011. In his start on July 14th against the Lakewood BlueClaws (PHI), Couch tossed 7.0 innings, allowing 1 run on 3 hits and a walk while striking out 8. While he did not pick up the victory, the Drive went on to a 5-1 victory. This season, Couch has compiled a 3-2 record with a 3.10 ERA, 3 saves and 80 strikeouts in 87.0 innings pitched, splitting time between the bullpen and starting rotation.

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