Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports
One of the more unfortunate story lines of the Red Sox’ 2014 season has been the demotion of Daniel Nava to Triple-A Pawtucket. Nava was one of the best feel-good stories of the 2013 season, but a rough start to the year combined with the Red Sox’ plethora of outfield depth and the fact that he still had an option resulted in his demotion last week. However, Nava, no stranger to adversity, is not taking things personally. On the contrary, he is taking his demotion in stride and has remained upbeat and positive despite the unfortunate start to the season.
Before a recent game with the PawSox, Nava had some words for reporters and appeared genuinely positive and happy despite his current status.
"There’s a lot worse things to deal with than playing Triple-A baseball. Obviously, every guy down here wants to be in the big leagues. That’s the goal, and I’m blessed that God has given me that opportunity; I’d love to get another one."
Nava got off to a shaky .149/.240/.269 start with the Red Sox and with Mike Carp and Jonny Gomes in fold in addition to his lack of options, he figured that he might be the odd man out when Shane Victorino returned to the Red Sox after a stint on the disabled list.
"It wasn’t anything I thought about. I don’t read articles or anything … I try to focus on everything on the field. It was something that I definitely wasn’t expecting, but at the same time, when it was brought to my attention, I understood why. I just want to go out and play better, and this is an opportunity to do that."
It’s a good sign for the Red Sox that Nava seems in such good spirits and does not appear to be harboring a grudge. After all, there’s no doubt that Nava will be back in Boston at some point this season. Injuries or ineffectiveness will happen and, through some means, the Red Sox’ current glut of first basemen/corner outfielders will diminish. For now, hopefully Nava can simply focus on his performance and return to the form that made him one of the better stories of the 2013 World Championship run.