What’s been the story of Spring Coaching to date? If we’re speaking massive image stuff, then it’s in all probability both the battle for the fifth spot within the rotation or the questions on Marcelo Mayer’s function on the crew. But when we’re speaking strictly about on-field issues, then I feel the reply is Braiden Ward, who has stolen 16 bases in 15 Grapefruit League video games. Not solely do these 16 steals lead all of baseball this spring, however they’re 10 greater than the gamers in second. However whereas Ward’s been enjoyable to observe, his profile simply doesn’t actually match the crew’s wants proper now, which is why he’s wanting like somebody who may very well be an enormous fan-favorite in Worcester this yr. (Christopher Smith, MassLive)
There could also be an rising storyline that many didn’t see coming: a battle for the backup catcher spot. Alex Cora has had some good issues to say about Matt Thaiss, and it’s just lately been reported that Thaiss has an upward mobility clause in his contract that kicks in earlier than Opening Day. That implies that, if the Pink Sox don’t put him on the MLB roster and one other crew does need him for his or her massive league crew, he’ll be free to depart. In the meantime, Connor Wong has an possibility remaining and may be despatched to Worcester. (Darragh McDonald, MLB Trade Rumors)
The battle for the backup catcher spot will clearly have a big affect on the pitching employees. For now, although, the Sox’ pitchers are largely centered on their very own growth. Working example: Sonny Grey, who is concentrated on repeating his supply and getting the best spin on the ball. (Jen McCaffrey, The Athletic)
Greg Weissert’s in all probability already fairly proud of how his stuff is wanting. He struck out Aaron Decide final evening to conclude one of the crucial vital upsets in World Baseball Basic historical past:
As for that fifth spot within the rotation, it appears to be like like we are able to take away Patrick Sandoval’s identify from competition for now. The Pink Sox are slowing him down for a “deload week.” He now might not even make a begin this spring, and he doesn’t sound too comfortable about it: “I’ve been going fairly onerous out right here for the reason that starting of January. I’m not the most important fan of this deload, but it surely’s what they prescribe and what they suppose will probably be good for me in the long term. I’ve trusted them to date, so I’m going to maintain trusting them.” (Tim Healey, Boston Globe)
