With Spring Training just days away, new Red Sox skipper Bobby Valentine has arrived in sunny Ft. Myers, Florida where the team will hold their spring workouts.
A player that will not be able to participate in full team workouts is Carl Crawford, who underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left wrist earlier this offseason. Valentine said he 'wouldn't be surprised' if Crawford would miss a few games at the beginning of the regular season, not just Spring Training.
"I wouldn't be surprised if Carl's a few weeks into the season before he's really ready. I wouldn't be surprised nor disappointed if that's what nature dictates as his healing process." (via Boston Globe)
In his first season with the Red Sox, Crawford struggled mightily, as he hit for a career low .255 with 11 homers and 55 RBI. The notorious speed demon also posted a career low in stolen bases with 18.
During the offseason, Valentine has had time to look at film on Crawford from last season, and is very anxious to help him improve next season. However, he wants Crawford to be 100% healed before doing so.
"When he's ready and he's healed, he is going to be a welcome addition to our team, whenever that is. The more I've looked at Carl on film and tried to evaluate the whole thing, he's really special and we really need him. If it's later, than that's when it will be." (via Boston Globe)
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