Mark Shapiro Extremely Quotations

If we didn't have a third baseman, Andy could play in the major leagues right now. Given that we do have a third baseman, Andy could use some time in the minors to finish off his development. Defensively, he's major-league ready right now. Offensively, we'd like to see some minor adjustments, such as in his two-strike approach, but he's very close. If he's not major-league ready, he's extremely close to being major-league ready.

I wouldn't say I'm surprised by Cliff's development, but I am a little surprised by the pace of it. He's an extremely competitive guy. He's made a ton of adjustments since last season, but I don't think anyone could have anticipated (that he'd get this good, this fast).

Jason is a hard-nosed, tough player that compliments our lineup extremely well. He has always been a tough out while recording a high on-base percentage and has the ability to play all three outfield positions well.

Boston is positioned extremely well for the future. They have a good farm system with upper-level players and a depth of pitching talent. They've rebuilt the farm system from a dilapidated system to a productive one. If they take a small step backward this year, at some point they will go on a run that will be an impressive run. They're a short period away.

Coco and Grady have similar skills, and we're extremely excited about Grady's future. Coco profiles best as a center fielder, which allowed us to be opportunistic and get a whole lot of value for him, which, in the end, was too much to turn down.

His approach to the game is far beyond his years. He's completely exemplary of the kind of player we're trying to get. He's a good teammate, good person, reliable, and extremely gifted.

He's extremely positive. Extremely motivated. Excited to come back here. He's conscious of what we're going through right now and wants to be a part of that.