Red Sox Spring Training Update
Fifth Starter. The fifth spot is still open in the rotation with Alfredo Aceves, Felix Doubront and Aaron Cook as the top contenders. Aceves has looked like The Man this spring. But his life-saving role in the bullpen last season is probably causing the Red Sox to pause in committing Aceves to a starting role. Doubront looked good against the Yankees this week – and having two lefties in the rotation has some appeal. And Cook pitched well again today. Cook got a late start to playing in games this spring – due a conservative approach because of past shoulder woes. If I was betting today – and this can change over the next two weeks – I would say: Aceves in the bullpen, Doubront in the rotation – but with a short leash – and Cook in Pawtucket to build up innings and be on call.
Proof Spring Training Stats Mean Nothing. Example A: Shortstop Pedro Ciriaco is batting over .500 and showing a great arm in the field. But there is no talk about Ciriaco as anything but Pawtucket bound. And if Jose Iglesias heads to the PawSox – as expected – Ciriaco most likely won’t even be a starter.
Lavarnway Interview. MiLB.com interviewed catcher prospect Ryan Lavarnway on his prep for the big leagues. My favorite question – what would you be doing if you weren’t a ballplayer? The answer: structural engineer. How many other ballplayers would say that? Expect Lavarnway to start in Pawtucket but hit Fenway sometime during the season. Or if Jarrod Saltalamacchia steps it up – Lavarnway could become a trading chip.
Albie Jarvis
