BOSTON (WBZ-AM) -- Red Sox outfielder Mookie Betts was an All-Star and top-six MVP vote-getter each of the last two seasons. When he's at his best, he's elite.
But, right now, early in spring training, he's struggling. 0-for-16 at the plate with five strikeouts and four walks thru seven games entering today's action with the Rays.
Betts spoke with WBZ's Jonny Miller about what he's working on.
"Just to be consistent," he said. "You're going to go through your ups and your downs, but it's just a matter of continuing to work and continue to try to get better and learn new things each day. I think this is what spring training is for."
David Price Is Pain-Free, Ramping Up Slowly For Red Sox
Price told NESN he was pain-free in yesterday's first spring outing when he faced minor-leaguers.
Is he feeling okay at the plate?
"Yeah, I mean, everything's comfortable. I've hit some balls hard, haven't gotten any luck there," he said. "But it's not important to get hits right now, I think it's just important to get your groove, see some pitches, and just be ready for the season."
So, after averaging 185 hits the last three seasons, is it safe to say he's just saving those for the regular season then?
"Yeah, I guess we could say that," Betts said.
Opening night's three weeks from Thursday, in Tampa.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Adam Kaufman reports