Xander Bogaerts is now focusing on pushing the San Diego Padres over the hump as a top World Series contender.

But, the longtime Red Sox shortstop and 2018 World Series champion is the latest in a long line of big-leaguers who have become smitten with Boston rookie standout Roman Anthony this season.

“You hear a lot about him, like ‘He’s so mature’ and stuff like that. That’s a lot of credit to him, for sure,” Bogaerts said of Anthony in a conversation with the Boston Herald’s Gabrielle Starr. “Roman’s really good, man. He’s really good. He’s the real deal.”

Anthony, who turned 21 years old on May 13, has been as advertised since joining Boston in June.

Entering Monday’s game against the Astros, Anthony is batting .282 with two home runs, 16 doubles, and 20 RBI over 51 games.

For

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