PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. - - Brock Holt isn’t about to mince words when it comes to his 2017 season.
“Obviously, last year, I stunk,’’ said Holt flatly. “I know that, everyone knows that. But I’m a good player and when I’m healthy, and feeling good, I can help us win.’’
Holt’s .545 OPS last year was easily a career worst for him as he battled through some post-concussion effects, batting just .200 with seven RBI in 140 at-bats. Making simple contact was hard, and so was maintaining focus and balance.
But this spring, as he’s been challenged for a roster spot, Holt has looked like himself again. With two more hits in the Red Sox’ 8-3 thumping of the Tampa Bay Rays, Holt is hitting .345 and seemingly held off both Deven Marrero and Tzu-Wei Lin for the utility role on the roster.
For Holt, it’s all about feeling normal again, something he’s achieved through time and some medication.
“You can see it in my at-bats,’’ said Holt. “Last year, I was swinging through pitches. I’m not one to strike out a whole lot and I was literally swinging through fastballs right now the middle and I was like, ‘What the heck is going on?’ I feel like my at-bats this spring have been really good. I’ve been able to put together some really good at-bats and stay in them.
“The at-bats feel good. I just feel like I’m able to lock in and focus a lot, lot better than I was last year. I feel like my vision is cleared, I’m able to focus better on the ball and I don’t have a lot of lag in my sight. Everything’s pretty clear. I feel a lot more comfortable in the box and I feel like it’s shown in my at-bats.’’
The Sox have been shopping Holt this spring, but his $2.225 million salary has made moving him difficult. Still, his versatility and rejuvenated offensive game appear to have won the day for him.
“I’m not too worried about it,’’ he said. “If the Red Sox don’t want me on the roster, I’m sure there’s 29 other teams that would happy to have me on the roster. It’s one of those things where you don’t worry about it. I feel I’m deserving of a spot on the team and I think if you ask anyone in here, they would say the same thing.
“So I’m not too worried about it. Whatever happens, happens and you go from there.’’
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