Much to the surprise of Terry Francona on Wednesday, there was a face that decided he was going to make the trip up to Bradenton to face the Pirates. The face, well the title gave it away already, was Manny Ramirez.

“He said he was bored, and he wanted to play,” manager Terry Francona said with a laugh.

First, he talks to the media after how many years. Second, he is asking on spring road trips which he rarely ever goes on. My guess is he was bored because his friend’s grill ad on Ebay got pulled. Actually, I think it is great. He obviously isn’t feeling comfortable enough or where he wants to be at the plate right now and felt that getting to face pitching in a game situation was better than easy workout back at the Fort.

Hopefully, this is a sign of things to come for Manny with his attitude. He has probably one of the greatest work routines when it comes to preparing his swing. I truly hope that all this dedication and hard work that Manny has put in pays off with big numbers for him and a win in the World Series for the Red Sox.

By the way, it wasn’t a full moon when Manny decided to speak to the media.