Count shortstop Mike Aviles as one of the Red Sox players that has worked to maintain a chiseled frame. While he doesn't specifically count calories, the 31-year-old is still picky with his choice of cuisine.
"I don't try to eat anything with fat," Aviles said. "It's usually the same [during the season and offseason]. I may eat some food with a little fat during the season because I'm burning so much of it out on the field."
Aviles also burned the Phillies' pitching staff over the weekend, hitting two leadoff long balls. On Sunday, the shortstop became the first Red Sox player to hit back-to-back leadoff homers since Harry Hooper achieved the feat in 1913.
Through the first two months, Aviles has made the most of his starting opportunity on the field, hitting eight homers and 27 RBIs. He's poised for a career-year, considering he hasn't posted more than 10 home runs and 51 RBIs in a season.
Aviles takes pride in his healthy lifestyle, which includes a strong workout routine and a disciplined diet.
Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz has taken a cue on adhering to a diet as well. In an attempt to reduce his cholesterol — and avoid taking medicine — the 36-year-old trimmed roughly 20 pounds by cutting out alcohol and munching on more vegetables.
It's allowed Ortiz to speed around the bases much better and patrol first base in interleague play with more dexterity. The weight loss hasn't affected Ortiz's power one iota, as he's blasted 10 home runs and driven in 30 runs.
And teammates like Red Sox catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia are taking notice of the positive ramifications of the slugger's diet.
"You know he lost all that weight and he's got some speed now, so he's feeling good right now," Saltalamacchia said. "That's how we like it."
For Aviles and Ortiz, it starts with a strong diet.
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) is offering 100 healthy tips to celebrate Fenway Park’s centennial. Visit 100pitches.org to learn more.
