Projo Sox Blog

By Joe McDonald
Journal Sports Writer

PAWTUCKET _ If a player can expose himself at different positions to make himself more versatile, it can only help his chances of getting, or returning, to the big leagues.
PawSox outfielder Jonathan Van Every is a perfect example of this.

Prior to Sunday's matinee game at McCoy Stadium, he was working at first base with Red Sox roving infield coordinator Bruce Crabbe.

The two were going over situations, including placement on cutoffs, relays and how and when to hold a runner on.

"I'm just trying to be as versatile as I can," he said. "If a void opens up, we'll see how it turns out."

The last time the 29-year-old outfielder played first was in high school.

"It's been a while," he said. "Athletically, I think I can do it. It's just a matter of getting comfortable and getting ground balls and know where to be at the right time. I'm just trying to add to my versatility in case something happens. I'm just trying to make myself as accessible as possible."

Van Every and Red Sox manager Terry Francona actually spoke about it recently when he was on recall to Boston. Francona thought it was a good idea. But it's not as though management has made it a point for Van Every to get work at first.

"It's been something that has been discussed over the last year and a half," said PawSox manager Ron Johnson. "It's more for him. He wants to do it and I'm a really big believer. I think it would be great for him, or anybody who can create more value for yourself. We know he's a top-notch outfielder at any position, so it's a natural fit [at first]. He's tall and left-handed. It's another asset you can bring."

While he won't be playing first base any time soon in a game, Van Every will continue to work on it.

"I think it's a very good idea for him," said Johnson.

 Tags  Jonathan Van Every PawSox Red Sox

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