Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here... highlighting the big storyline. Because there's nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump.
Jose Iglesias, SS
His chances of being the Opening Day shortstop were erased when the Sox signed free agent Stephen Drew. And for the first time in three years, Iglesias won’t even be the most talked-about shortstop prospect in camp.
Xander Bogaerts, come on down.
Nevertheless, it’s an important spring for Iglesias, whose struggle at the plate (.313 on-base percentage in the minors) has outweighed even his defensive brilliance. And although he’s only 23, the time is near to either show improvement or fade away.
Herald - These Sox could surprise
The premise of this article by the Herald's Scott Lauber is a simple one: Last year Ciriaco, a player that nobody knew of, or expected anything from, had a fabulous Spring which had him pushing for a spot on the Opening Day roster. He throws five names into the ring to determine who this year's surprise will be.
Here are his five: Rubby De La Rosa, Steven Wright, Jackie Bradley Jr., Brock Holt, and Jose Iglesias.
I highlight Iglesias above because, well, this is Ted's Army and if Jose Iglesias is mentioned in a column somewhere (anywhere) and we don't highlight it we get suspended from the site, without pay, for a month. I've got kids to feed, so Jose it is!
But I also think that Jose and Jackie Bradley Jr. don't quite fit the Ciriaco mold of anonymity. Bradley Jr. is 'the next big thing'. The Sox have a plan for when they want him up. Good play in Spring probably won't force the organization's hand here. And Iglesias? Everybody has known who Jose has been for a long time. In fact, we've been patiently waiting for him to finally make an Opening Day roster. The only way he does this Spring is if Stephen Drew is injured. So, in conclusion, Jose Iglesias is a near lock to make the Opening Day roster.
The other three: De La Rosa, Wright, and Holt would be a bit surprising to see come Opening Day. We'll wait and see how these guys play this Spring before we start getting excited about their chances to help this season. Besides, I'm happy with the Ciriaco we have. I don't need another one.
Rest of the links:
Herald - Winter’s tale a telling one | WEEI - The man who will be in charge of making Mike Napoli a full-time first baseman | Globe - Report claims Alex Rodriguez was injected with performance-enhancing drugs by owner of Florida clinic
