Saltalamacchia Welcomes New Opportunity
PawSox catcher Jarrod Slatalamacchia is seeing his first action tonight after being acquired Saturday in a trade with the Texas Rangers. Saltalamacchia spoke to the media right after batting practice. Here are some excerpts…
- On his new opportunity:
“I’m excited. A fresh start. I have a lot to look forward to. I’m here to learn as much as I can and take it all in and take advantage of everything I get.”
- On the Red Sox having their sights on him for some time:
“To be in an organization where they want me, they gave up a lot to get me. I’m ready to do whatever they want me to do.”
On his progression since suffering throwing issues earlier in the year:
“I’ve dealt with a lot of stuff since the beginning of the season. I feel confident that I beat it. The past four months I’ve been playing well with no issues. I hope to continue to do that.” ”I worked with a lot of people and got a lot out of it this past year. I think I’ve improved my game by doing stuff I never used to do. All in all I think it was a good thing to happen to me.” ”It was a physical issue I allowed to become mental. Once I realized it was a physical issue, the metal part went out of it.”
On fitting into the Red Sox long-term plans at catcher:
“I’m looking at this as a fresh start. Learn as much as I can from these guys (Jason Varitek and Victor Martinez in Boston). They’ve got a legacy here and I hope to be part of it for a long time. It’s all what I do with the opportunity right now.”
On playing in the media market that is Boston:
“It’s huge. They’re definitely one of the teams that you play, whether at home or on the road, there are always Boston fans.”
On changing organizations mid-season and his familiarity with the Red Sox:
“It’s different. I know a few guys. I’ve got to get familiar with the organization all over again. It’s going to be a road ahead.” ”I know Ryan Shealy from a few years back and Browny (Dusty Brown). I’m looking forward to making new friends and being on the east coast again.”
PawSox Manager Torey Lovullo on Saltalamacchia:
“He brings some leadership, some experience. There’s a presence there.” ”I know he’s got an impressive offensive approach. His defensive approach is something we’ll need to see each and every day to see what his strengths and weaknesses are.”
Lovullo on Saltalamacchia’s role and how he will manage three catchers:
“I haven’t been told how the playing time will work out.” It’s a unique challenge at times. The balancing act may be some DH time for the off guy. (Wagner) is battling some issues and will be taking the next few days off. So for today and tomorrow we’ll be OK. After that I’m going to get some planning from the front office on who the priority guy is.”
Saltalamachia will be wearing number 32 for Pawtucket
