Stephen Drew's Opening Day Status In Great Doubt Due To Concussion
BOSTON (CBS) -- It looks more and more as though Stephen Drew's career with the Boston Red Sox will not get off to the greatest start.
The shortstop was hit in the head by a pitch on March 7 and suffered a concussion. Now, nearly two weeks later, Drew is still experiencing concussion-like symptoms, and the team has sent him to Pittsburgh to be examined by Dr. Michael Collins.
As a result, it's becoming less and less likely that Drew will be available to play for the Red Sox on Opening Day in New York on April 1.
Manager John Farrell said on Sunday that the "window is narrowing" on Drew's chances of being able to play when the season begins.
Should Drew be unable to recover in time, Jose Iglesias would be the starting shortstop. Iglesias is hitting .220 this spring with four doubles, a triple and a home run. In 83 career MLB plate appearances, Iglesias owns a .135 average with 18 strikeouts and just four walks. However, Farrell spoke with confidence about Iglesias' progress.
"Jose has done a very good job," Farrell said. "He feels confident in the box, and that's what we're seeing. His work has been outstanding, and he spoke openly about maybe some disappointment was brought in over the offseason but understood it, and yet he's put that behind him. He goes out and he plays and he's eager to get here every day."
Drew himself hit just .223 last year, splitting time in Arizona and Oakland. He did hit .263 in September with five home runs. He was 3-for-16 in his limited action this spring.
