Despite lack of role, Bradley upbeat about his future
Center fielder likely to begin '15 at Triple-A, or could be dealt by Red Sox
FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Jackie Bradley Jr., who struggled mightily at the plate last season while playing Gold Glove-caliber defense in center field, no longer seems to have a role with the Red Sox.
Yet the predicament has done nothing to diminish Bradley's spirits as he gears up for 2015.
"I feel great. I'm in a good place," said Bradley. "I've been working hard all offseason and I'm getting ready for the real season."
Barring an injury to another Boston outfielder, Bradley will start the "real season" at Triple-A Pawtucket, or perhaps a team he gets traded to.
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The Braves, according to Peter Gammons of MLB Network, would love to slot Bradley into their outfield.
"I'm just trying to focus on this spring," Bradley said. "I'm not worried about anything that's out of my control. I can control what I can control and that's preparing for this upcoming season."
What did Bradley learn from last season, when he hit .198 with a .531 OPS in 127 games?
"Just have to get over it and move forward," Bradley said. "Can't change the past. Focus on what you can do in the present."
Bradley knows he can only improve offensively after last year.
"It's definitely a new year and I'm excited. I'm excited for things to come," Bradley said.