So now he’s back. With the Red Sox. Sort of.
Lowell arrived in Fort Myers Monday and will participate in the Sox’ first full-squad workout today . . . unless general manager Theo Epstein trades him again before 9 a.m.
Ever the class act, Lowell faced the media and answered every question yesterday. When WBZ’s intrepid Jonny Miller asked, “What will you remember most about the years in Boston?’’ Lowell answered, “I’m not dead, Jonny. So, I don’t know. I have a lot of good memories, but that doesn’t mean it’s over.’’
But it is over. Lowell has to go. Even though he is a fan favorite who was Most Valuable Player of the 2007 World Series . . . even though he hit .324 with 21 homers and 120 RBIs just three years ago . . . even though he hit .290 with 17 homers and 75 RBIs in only 119 games last year.
The Sox found his replacement and gave the third base job to Adrian Beltre. They’ve got a first baseman in Kevin Youkilis. They’ve got a DH in David Ortiz. Lowell is not part of the plan even if he’s still part of the roster.
“There’s no real playing time for me here, barring a major injury,’’ he said, matter-of-factly. “And I’m not really in the business of hoping someone gets hurt just so I get at-bats. I feel like I’m more prepared and ready for a full season than I was last year, so why shouldn’t I play more than I did last year? Whether it’s here or somewhere else, I really can’t control that.
“I’m pretty set that things were going to come to an end sooner or later. I didn’t think I was going to play forever. I really haven’t stopped to think about how I feel. This might seem awkward, baseball-wise, but I actually enjoy being on the field. I like seeing all the guys I haven’t seen. I had dinner with Jacoby [Ellsbury] and [Dustin] Pedroia yesterday. I like that aspect of it. I’m excited to hit on the field and play in games. The competition drives me.
“Have I enjoyed Boston? Of course, I’ve enjoyed Boston. I’ve never said that I haven’t. I don’t really have any regrets whichever way we’re going to go.’’
