'Attitude of the older guys can directly influence success' Red Sox Matt Dermody ready for veteran AAA role
A few injuries to the starting pitching rotation have forced the Red Sox to fill from the AAA roster. Due to the call-ups starting on the major league opening day roster, there are a few holes to fill in the AAA starting rotation. One of those possibly to fill that role is 32-year-old Matt Dermody.
Dermody was signed by the Red Sox in January after pitching in the Cubs organization last season. After making his major league debut in 2016 with the Blue Jays, Dermody has made stops in Korea, Japan, and even a stint in Independent ball.
That career arc is nothing short of impressive, and that arc has led his way to the Red Sox organization where he could find himself in the WooSox starting rotation to begin the year. I asked him about what he’s looking forward to entering his first season in the Red Sox system.
“My biggest goal this season is to fulfill whatever role I’m placed in. Every time I take the mound, I want to help put my team in the best position possible to win the game.” Dermody said.
After splitting time between starting and pitching out of the bullpen, Dermody is ready no matter when he is called upon in Worcester. On top of his outlook on his role, Dermody feels high on being a positive clubhouse presence wherever he ends up.
“Another personal goal for me this year that’s high on my priority list would be my clubhouse presence and my impact as a teammate.” Dermody added. “Last year I was the second oldest guy on the team with the Iowa Cubs and I think the attitude of the older guys can directly influence the success of the team. There’s nothing better than being a part of a winning team.”
That veteran leadership will be needed on a young pitching rotation in Worcester that features top prospects Bryan Mata, Brandon Walter, and Chris Murphy.
Dermody was reassigned to minor league camp on Wednesday after pitching 8.1 innings this spring with three hits given up, zero runs, and ten strikeouts. SoxProspects currently projects him as the fifth starter in the Worcester bullpen.
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