Ellsbury Could Be Back?

AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh
Sometimes all it takes is 1 game to break a guy out of a slump. Last night could end up being that game for Jacoby Ellsbury. At least, I hope it is. And I think I speak I speak for Red Sox Nation when I say that. Ellsbury, I think, would also like for that to be the case, especially seeing as he'll be a free agent at the end of the season. The hitting coaches certainly have been noticing and they feel Ellsbury is going to break out, according to boston.com. Victor Rodrigez feels that we're close to seeing "the Ellsbury we know and love," according to boston.com. Last night was also Ellsbury's first 2 hit game since May 5th, and only the 2nd time he's reached base 4 times this month, according to ESPN.

One game like last night can be a huge confidence builder. Everyone on the team has an important role to play in the team's success this season, but Ellsbury is especially important as the leadoff man. He needs to get on base and be the catalyst for the offense. He always brings it with his defense, but his role as a catalyst is what will be important going forward. I'm sure Ellsbury will also be hoping he'll turn things around. He probably won't replicate 2011, although I'm sure he wants to come close. He'll want to make bank in the off-season, whether it be here or another team. I'd like to see him stay, because I think he could contribute for years to come, but I understand the people who want to start looking towards the future (Jackie Bradley Jr.). That is another article, though. Let's keep the focus on this season, shall we?

Twitter - @ConorJF1016.


Conor Frederick
Contributing Writer