PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. -- With Carl Crawford likely set to start the season on the disabled list, the Red Sox will have an opening for an extra outfielder for the first couple of weeks.
Journeyman Jason Repko is one name in the mix for that temporary roster spot.
"Repko can do a lot of things,'' said Bobby Valentine. " Saturday, he executed a perfect relay throw that cut the guy down at home plate. He can bunt, hit-and-run, is a very good outfielder catching the ball. It's good to know we have him if we need him.''
Repko, 31, has played all three outfield spots, but can't help out in the infield. Nate Spears, meanwhile, is an infielder by trade, but can play the outfield 'a little''' according to Valentine. He has spent parts of six seasons in the majors with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Minnesota Twins.
Valentine said the plan is for utility infielder Pedro Ciriaco to play some outfield soon, in case the Sox need him do so during the season.
"His speed and the arm seem to tell you that he can (handle some outfield),'' said Valentine.
The Sox would like as much versatility as they can get for the role. They also would prefer to use a veteran to take Crawford's spot for the first two weeks or so, since they'd rather have younger players getting underway at Pawtucket and getting more regular playing time.