For Zach Bryant, playing in a Red Sox uniform was a dream growing up. Last week, that became a reality as Boston acquired Bryant from the Cubs to complete the Josh Osich trade from last year. The Red Sox’ newest prospect will most likely begin the year in Single-A but is eager to prove himself to his new organization. For Bryant, it has been a memorable few days as Spring Training has just gotten underway.
“At first, I didn’t pick up up the call because I didn’t recognize the number,” said Bryant. “Then the Cubs called again and said we know you aren’t expecting this, but you are going to the Red Sox. I’m grateful for my time with the Cubs, but I was a diehard Red Sox fan growing up. After the trade became official, I had to mute Twitter for a little bit. My friends texted me that @Jared_Carrabis tweeted about me, and I had to go back on. It was really cool to see his tweet because he is the face of Red Sox Twitter.”
Although Bryant is already popular among Red Sox fans, he was dominant in his first stint in the minors. In 12 games, Bryant had a 1.27 ERA and did not allow a home run. The former fifteenth-round pick also struck out 24 batters in 21.1 innings of work. Entering 2021, Bryant is looking to build on his success after the 2020 minor league season was canceled.
Zach Bryant looks like he pitches with the same intensity as someone who wants to rip your throat out. pic.twitter.com/qXiR69VbQL
— Jared Carrabis (@Jared_Carrabis) February 28, 2021
“It was disappointing to spend the whole offseason grinding and then have the season canceled.” he added. ” I live in Florida, and the gyms have mostly been open, so my training hasn’t really changed. I know a couple of guys here as well, so I’ve been able to throw with them. In a way, it’s been a blessing in disguise because I have been able to focus on improving my game.”
What to expect from Bryant in 2021
With the minor league season only weeks away, Bryant will not have to wait long to get started in the Red Sox organization. As he looks to build on his success, Bryant’s main goal will be to raise his velocity. Over the past year, he has focused on getting stronger and improving his game.
“The main thing I am looking to work on in is attacking hitters and throwing harder.” said Bryant. “Adding extra velocity will make my off-speed pitches a little more deceptive and harder to read. This is the longest I’ve gone without baseball. I’m just excited to get back on the field.”
As Bryant begins his Red Sox career, he will have added motivation to make it to the majors. Bryant grew up watching David Ortiz‘s postseason heroics and has been to Fenway as a fan. In 2021 he will be looking to rise in the Red Sox system and appear on the field he watched his favorite players create their legacies.
“Getting to pitch in Fenway is one of my goals. My parents surprised me with a trip when I was 18, and we toured the park. Growing up, my favorite players were David Ortiz, Dustin Pedroia, and Manny Ramirez. Getting to pitch in the same stadium they played in would be a dream come true, and I’m excited about that potential opportunity.”
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Main Image Credit: https://judolphins.com/sports/baseball/roster/zach-bryant/228
