Atchison Ready Ahead Of First Spring Appearance
BOSTON (CBS) – For the second straight spring, Scott Atchison to battling to make the major league roster.
In 2010, Atchison was one of the more reliable middle relievers for Terry Francona, finishing with a 2-3 record with a 4.50 ERA in 43 appearances. He had a 3.49 ERA as late as Sept. 19, but struggled mightily over the final weeks of the season as the Sox faded from the playoff race.
After the Red Sox revamped the bullpen with the signings of Dan Wheeler, Bobby Jenks, and others, Atchison has to compete for a job again, but he won't let the competition affect how he prepares.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Jonny Miller spoke to Atchison.
Podcast
"No, I try not to look at it as 'I gotta do something.' It's kinda just go out and do my thing and get myself ready and the rest will take care of itself. I kinda went through the same thing last spring, so I'm just gonna take the same approach and go with that," said Atchison.
Atchison was most valuable for Francona as a middle and long reliever. He even started one game in a pinch on June 13.
"The more roles I can do, hopefully that'll keep me around," said Atchison. "I really concentrate on being able to do multiple things and feel like I can do those things well, and so I'm looking to do the exact same stuff this year."
Atchison, who will be 35 in late March, says new pitching Curt Young can still help him improve.
"Well, you're always learning…so once (I) get to sit down and talk with him to see what he has to say or what he thinks about what I'm doing. So, I'll listen to what he has to say and we can go from there and see if there's something that will help improve me," said Atchison.
Many experts have predicted a 100-win season for the Red Sox, which could mean more pressure on players in a big market like Boston.
"I don't think anybody feels any added pressure. It's just a matter of everybody coming in and doing their job, and the rest will take care of itself," said Atchison.
He is set to pitch against the Twins Sunday night in Fort Myers, Florida.
