Watch CBS News

David Price Says He Feels Great In 'Media Session' On Twitter

By Matt Dolloff, CBS Boston

BOSTON (CBS) -- Seriously, why does David Price even bother going on Twitter?

It couldn't be more plainly obvious that Price is not comfortable with the cynical responses to his tweets from angry Red Sox fans, the aggressive scrutiny of the Boston media, and the overall pressure that comes with living up to a seven-year, $210 million contract in Boston. Especially as he recovers from an elbow strain that still has a chance to lead to major surgery.

Price threw a 45-pitch bullpen session on Monday at Fenway Park, which Price tweeted about on Tuesday. But he took things in an unnecessary direction with his next tweet:

Price is trying to control the message and placate inquisitive reporters with the "media session" part. That's fine. He doesn't necessarily owe the media a new explanation every day about his status. It seems that he's tired of fielding the same questions day after day about a recovery process that takes time.

It's certainly good news that Price is feeling great and the prospects of him pitching and contributing meaningful innings this season look better. But it sends an odd mix of signals to his Twitter followers that he's abruptly slamming the door on questions about his health.

There were plenty of positive, encouraging responses from less cynical fans, and it appears that Price is no longer reading comments from his followers, or reporters, or anyone. But considering his history, it's virtually impossible to believe that Price is actually ignoring the "questions" that have since rolled in ...

It's responses like this that Price wants to get out of his Twitter feed. He's still determined to make Boston love him. Unfortunately, that won't have a chance of happening until he's back on the mound and pitching well. It's going to be a while before he even has a chance of getting the sour taste of last seasons playoff loss out of everyone's mouths.

Until then, Price just needs to accept that his tweets, especially ones like this, are going to invite these kinds of responses. Especially when he's throwing in preemptively snippy comments like "This is my media session." If he's not actually reading the replies to his tweet, or worrying about what media blowhards are saying about him, that's great. He shouldn't. Just worry about your recovery and let "Manager John" handle all the questions.

But tweets like this one project the opposite effect of what Price is trying to convey. It actually suggests that he's as obsessed with what everyone thinks about him as ever. "All questions are answered" can be roughly translated here to "Please, keep asking questions."

Until he pitches better - especially in October - the harsh reality of dealing with the high expectations of the media and fans in Boston won't be going anywhere. As much as he wants it to disappear, it won't.

Matt Dolloff is a writer/producer for CBSBostonSports.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect that of CBS or 98.5 The Sports Hub. Have a news tip or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff and email him at mdolloff@985thesportshub.com.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.