BOSTON — Back in Fort Myers, Pedro Ciriaco shined for the Red Sox.
By the end of his two months in spring training, the infielder tallied a .419 batting average, one of the highest totals in camp. Still, despite the impressive numbers, Ciriaco didn’t make the Opening Day roster after the Red Sox opted to take a pitcher with the last spot.
But even in Pawtucket, Ciriaco made his case for a call-up, hitting .301 with four homers, 21 RBIs, 14 steals and 41 runs. Amid all the success, Ciriaco maintained his patience.
“You’re always hungry to get called up, but I just wanted to stay positive and not get frustrated,” Ciriaco said. “If you get frustrated, you’re the one losing. The opportunity comes when God wants it to happen. I just want to help in whatever way I can.”
The 26-year-old certainly can contribute at any position. With the PawSox, Ciriaco played second base, third base and shortstop while occasionally shagging fly balls in the outfield before games.
Since Dustin Pedroia and Will Middlebrooks are sidelined, his versatility could be an asset for the Red Sox. And Ciriaco is hoping to capitalize on his strengths, beginning Saturday when he starts for Boston against the Yankees.
“I just need to be prepared for any situation at any moment,” Ciriaco said. “I’m ready wherever they need me. I’m more comfortable at short, but fortunately I’m capable of playing second base and I played third base in Triple-A recently, so I’m becoming more comfortable there. I just want an opportunity to play.”
But it’ll be baptism by fire for Ciriaco, who is getting his first taste of major league action this season against the Yankees. He’s already taking note of the massive expectations that come with the rivalry.
“It’s the same game but with more emotion,” Ciriaco said. “I’m excited. You don’t want to put too much pressure on yourself even though you’re playing in Boston, so I just want to just try to have fun.”
It worked in Pawtucket, when the infielder flourished and earned honors as an International League All-Star. Now, he’s eager to pick up where he left off.
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Thumbnail via Twitter/Enrique_Rojas1
