A.J. Pollock looking to seize opportunity with the D-backs
Apr 11, 2013, 1:55 AM
Arizona Diamondbacks center fielder A.J. Pollock had a career day at the plate against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday, ending an 0-for-14 skid by going 3-for-5 with two home runs, a double and four RBI.
But despite the D-backs’ outfielder’s eye-opening performance, Pollock knows he has to continue to play well if he hopes to remain on the big league club after Cody Ross is activated from the disabled list next week.
“When I am in the lineup, I am there on the team and I am ready to compete,” Pollock told Arizona Sports 620’s Doug & Wolf Wednesday. “When I’m not in the lineup, I am trying to be the best bench player I can and all the other stuff, I am not going to really start thinking about. It really doesn’t do you any good.”
Pollock made the Opening Day roster after injuries to starting outfielders Ross and Adam Eaton. He has hit .273 with two home runs and six RBI in seven games played this season.
“I try to do a little bit of everything,” Pollock stated. “Every single day, no matter what, I should be able to bring something to the table whether it’s the defense or whether it’s my hitting that day or my baserunning.”
While the decision on Pollock’s immediate future is ultimately up to manager Kirk Gibson, the 25-year-old’s attitude and work ethic certainly mirrors the D-backs’ gritty recipe for success.
“I try to not be quiet for the whole game,” Pollock said. “I try to do the little things right, too, and I think every day if you do the little things right, it’s going to add up to a lot.”
If Wednesday’s game was any indication, Pollock’s future appears to be a bright one.
