FORT MYERS, Fla. – The Red Sox as an organization are expecting big things from Eduardo Rodriguez this season and believe with his chronic knee surgically repaired, this could be a breakout season for the lefty.
And they’re not the only ones.
The team’s veteran starters – led by Chris Sale, David Price and Rick Porcello – have made it a project to oversee Rodriguez this spring. They’ve counseled him, pushed him and are expecting him to take a big step forward.
So, while Rodriguez made a significant stride Tuesday, pitching in a game for the first time this spring, Alex Cora was quick to spread the credit around.
“What happened on that field today with Eduardo,’’ said Cora, “that was Chris, that was Rick, that was David. They’re pushing him. It’s like (Rodriguez is) their little brother. I’m really happy with everything going on in that clubhouse. They’re taking charge, which is great.
In January, during the Red Sox’ barnstorming event in Connecticut, Porcello had several conversations with Rodriguez about how to be a professional.
And over the course of the winter, Rodriguez would send Price videos of his off-season rehab sessions and workout routines, promising Price to be ready for his start of the season.
Price, for one, can’t wait to see what Rodriguez does with the opportunity.
“He’s 24 years old,’’ said Price, “and he’s far more advanced than I was (at that age) and probably every other starter that we have here whenever they were 24 years old. I threw two pitches at time – he’s got a four-pitch mix, both sides of the plate. It’s been a lot of fun to watch him over the past couple of years and see how he’s evolved and how much he wants to get better and how much he pays attention. That’s what you want from those young guys.’’
Now, the onus in Rodriguez to make good on the expectations his teammates have for him.
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