Eagle-Tribune Blogs: Burt Talks Sports

I know there are some really good questions I haven’t got to, but will answer them all later today. Just wanted to give quick update on what Jason Varitek had to say. It should be noted that his conditioning is the best I’ve seen it (added a few pounds he said, although it looks to be muscle). Dustin Pedroia also made an appearance and he wasn’t lying when talking about the shape he is in. He looks noticeably in better condition than at this time last year. Curt Schilling played some toss with Josh Beckett, and Mike Timlin and Brendan Donnelly. All looked healthy, wealthy and wise.

Varitek highlights as we await the physicals to be completed:
– No restraints in his workouts this offseason, which wasn’t the case last year. He said he is actually in better shape than he was at this time last season even though he had to prepare for the World Baseball Classic.
– Doesn’t know any Japanese right now, but will learn it if need-be.
– Tough to judge Matsuzaka by watching him on tape since he doesn’t see him from that angle usually.
– Got self in a hole offensively last year. When came back from knee surgery was trying some new things that didn’t work out.
– Different points last year the muscle in his Gluteus Maximus was an issue, but always have to play through some aches and pains, he said.
– Worked more on hitting than usual in offseason.
– “We’ll see if I have to add some fingers,” he said when asked about Matsuzaka’s extensive pitch selection.
– Think will solidify closer role sooner than they did in ‘03, and have a lot more options than during that year. Papelbon, he said, will be good at whatever he does.

Got to go listen to Tim Wakefield …

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