Sunday marked the official day that Red Sox pitchers and catchers were to report to Fort Myers, Florida for the start of spring training. For many pitchers they arrived several days before Sunday, most noticeably Jon Lester who was getting some workouts in at the start of last week. But for Carlos Silva, he has yet to show up and according to reports, he’s going to be a day or two late. Not exactly the type of start that the former Cubs problem child needs with new manager Bobby Valentine.
For Silva, this spring training represents a second chance to get back into the big leagues. Coming off a disappointing 2011 season in which he didn’t make one appearance in the majors, but rather widdled away in AAA before shutting down the rest of the season thanks to a shoulder injury, one would think that Silva would be eager to show up to his new home. A sense of motivation could be lacking from Silva who has a history of dramatic flare ups and dust ups with management and if him not reporting to camp on time is any indication, he could be looking for work in the near future.
The Red Sox signed Silva to a minor league contract with an invite to spring training. Silva is one of many options that will compete for the fifth spot in the rotation. Some see Silva as a longshot to make the rotation, but could serve better as a bullpen arm and get some spot starts thrown his way.
When Bobby V was asked about why Silva was late, even the new skipper isn’t sure what to think.
“Silva’s having a tough time getting out of the Midwest. He’s a problem I think.” – courtesy of Pete Abraham of the Boston Globe.
Silva lives in Minnesota so what his issues are remains to be seen. If this is what Silva is going to bring to the table all year, I don’t care how good he pitches, get rid of him now. This ballclub does not need anymore distractions or drama queens in the locker room.
For all the latest news and analysis from BoSox Injection, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, or with our RSS feed.
Add us as a preferred source on Google