Eduardo Rodriguez has no time for anyone who says the Boston Red Sox won't be competitive in 2021.
Red Sox manager Alex Cora already laid the groundwork for how Boston will approach the season: Like a team that thinks it can make the playoffs.
And on Friday afternoon, Rodriguez -- who is 100 percent after missing last season due to COVID-19 and myocarditis -- issued a blunt message to those who don't believe in the Red Sox.
"Don't sleep on us," the southpaw said during a video conference with reporters.
While last year obviously was a disappointment, the roster underwent something of an overhaul this offseason. Adam Ottavino, Hirokazu Sawamura, Matt Andriese and Garrett Richards are among the pitching additions. The Red Sox also get Rodriguez -- and likely Chris Sale at a later date -- back this season.
Plus, they've made some nice position-player additions in Kiké Hernández, Hunter Renfroe and (reportedly) Marwin Gonzalez.
So, in other words, Boston should bounce back this season. To what extent obviously remains to be seen, but it sounds like within the clubhouse, the Red Sox believe they have a competitive squad.
