Lars Anderson Starts to Take Reps as Outfielder, Hopes to Use New Tools to Join Red Sox

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Apr 4, 2012

Lars Anderson Starts to Take Reps as Outfielder, Hopes to Use New Tools to Join Red SoxLars Anderson has impressed many with his bat, but he's adding a new wrinkle to his game with his glove in hopes of attracting a spot in the majors.

Anderson, who has spent his entire minor-league career at first base, has been taking reps in the outfield recently to add a level of diversity to his game.

The 24-year-old first basemen said he was the one who approached his coaches about shifting over to the outfield. Anderson also said that adding another position should help increase his value to the Red Sox, and will be a plus in helping him make his way to the major leagues.

It's a statement Pawtucket manager Arnie Beyeler agrees with.

"He's doing a good job," said Beyeler. "You look at our outfield and he's probably not going to get a lot of opportunity out there, but he can go out there. He's a good athlete. He can catch the ball and throw the ball around and it's only going to make him more valuable."

Beyeler also said that players that are skilled offensively will definitely benefit from excelling at multiple positions. The PawSox manager cites Nate Spears, Pedro Ciriaco and Jason Repko as players who can contribute at numerous positions on the field.

Although it's been a while since Anderson has played in the outfield, the California native is ready to take on a new challenge.

"It's been interesting and exciting," said Anderson. "I've never played there before at the pro level. I played there in high school so it's something fresh."

Anderson has been putting in the time, as he tries to work his way back into becoming an outfielder.

"I'm getting fungos thrown a little bit more," said Anderson. "I've mostly been taking balls out in batting practice."

Despite his presence in the outfield, Anderson will still primarily play at first base while he continues to work at Pawtucket, but strong play in the outfield will only help as he tries to make his way back to Fenway Park.

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