Scott should see more time in the field in '13

PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. -- The sight of Luke Scott throwing was a rare one for the Rays last year, as Scott's ongoing recovery from his 2011 right shoulder surgery generally held him back. He played just six games in the field at first base in 2012.

Scott, though, appears to have finally fully recovered from his shoulder woes, and while he is still slotted in as the Rays' designated hitter, he should see more time in the field.

"He's feeling really good about himself right now," manager Joe Maddon said. "That opens up other options for us moving down the road. I think it opens the door to him being a better offensive player for us this year. It's really encouraging."

Maddon is especially encouraged by Scott's batting-practice sessions.

"He's not holding back," Maddon said. "He's not consciously thinking about it. Many times last year, I'd see his swing and then the rolling of the shoulder afterward. You don't see that now. He was constantly testing the wellness of it. Now, he's not."