Roche: Spring In Full Swing For Red Sox
FORT MYERS, Fla (CBS) -- Pitchers and catchers officially reported for duty Friday here in the sunny -- but a little chilly -- Fort Myers.
There were no formal workouts on Friday as pitchers and catchers underwent their physicals. The first official workout for pitchers and catchers will take place on Saturday.
Manager John Farrell addressed the assembled media down here and he touched upon several topics:
-- I asked him about Shane Victorino and he was quick to say when Victorino is fully capable and healthy, he will be their starting right fielder. Farrell also went on to say that Victorino shouldn't lose his job because of an injury. Victorino only played in 30 games last season due to various injuries and eventually had to undergo season-ending back surgery in August.
-- As for Pablo Sandoval, Farrell said he's not concerned about his new third baseman's weight and that he's working with people who will get him on the field every day. Farrell also said that Pablo's body type hasn't changed since he signed with Boston, and that his "body type" works for him.
--Farrell is excited about his starting pitching staff, saying it's a deep and talented rotation. He's confident in the arms they have, and thinks Rick Porcello can evolve into an ace. He said the raw abilities are here and that one or more guys may end up being that guy.
-- The Sox manager was also asked about the possibility of Cole Hamels being acquired from the Phillies in a trade, but said, "I'm happy with the guys we have and looking forward to how they perform." He also added that, like Ben Cherington has said, "we're happy, but not satisfied."
-- When asked who might lead off, Farrell said it could be Victorino, Mookie Betts or Brock Holt, but that could change day to day.
-- With Major League Baseball approving some pace of play rules to help move games along, Farrell and the players seem to be in a wait-and-see mode. It should be interesting to see how David Ortiz will react to that...
-- Overall it was a great day here in Fort Myers and it's nice to have the game back. I'll be here for a week, and you can follow us every step of the way here on cbsbostonsports.com as well as WBZ-TV, WBZ-AM, and 98.5 The Sports Hub!
Follow WBZ-TV's Dan Roche on Twitter @RochieWBZ.
