Shane Victorino: I should start in right field for the Red Sox
Shane Victorino indicated that he thinks he should be the starting right fielder for the Boston Red Sox this season, according to a report from the Boston radio station WEEI.
Victorino batted .294 with 15 home runs and 61 RBI in 2013 while helping the Red Sox win the World Series, but played in only 30 games last season because of hamstring issues and back surgery.
Boston currently counts eight designated outfielders on its 40-man roster, including recent additionHanley Ramirez. Other candidates to play in the outfield include Mookie Betts and Yoenis Cespedes.
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From the report:
“If you think there’s somebody better in right, be my guest,” Victorino said. “Obviously health will dictate that. But if I’m healthy if there’s a better outfielder in right field then show me and go out there and do it. I’m not saying that in a cocky or arrogant way. It’s just how confident I am to know I should be the starting right fielder. There are things to come into play and situations to be discussed. I plan on being healthy and out there and ready to go. Like I said, it’s my job. I don’t think there’s anybody can tell me differently. If they feel there is from an organization’s standpoint it is what it is. As I’ve said, whatever uniform it may be I’m going to go out there and give 100 percent and be the best I can be. Obviously I want it to be a Red Sox uniform and be a right fielder, but I can’t control decisions that are made from up top.”
Victorino signed with the Red Sox in December 2012 after spending seven seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies. The 33-year-old has also had stints with the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres.
The Red Sox went 71-91 and finished in last place in the American League East last season.
