MLB Spring Training 2012: Pedro Ciriaco Making the Most out of an Opportunity

Out of all of the big names vying for a spot on the 25-man Opening Day roster, 26-year-old infielder Pedro Ciriaco probably doesn't come to mind.

Even if you've just been following Red Sox spring training for the last couple of days, you've probably heard his name. If not, let me fill you in.

Boston signed Ciriaco to a minor-league contract over the offseason, previously playing in Pittsburgh and Arizona's minor league systems with a handful of stints in the big leagues.

Now, he isn't ranked by SoxProspects.com because he's no longer of rookie status, but they do project him to be the starting second baseman for the Triple-A Pawtucket Red Sox at the start of the 2012 regular season.

The scouting report from SoxProspects.com on Ciriaco is quite short:

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"Excellent defensive shortstop with good speed. Makes decent contact, but has below average plate discipline and minimal power."

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Last season, playing for the Pirates' Triple-A affiliate, Ciriaco appeared in 71 games, hitting .231/.243/.300; clearly not the best of offensive lines that you'll see, but there is upside. Playing for the Pirates in 23 games last season, the 6'0" shortstop hit .303 with 10 hits and four runs in 33 at-bats.

Over the last few days I've been in the Fort Myers area watching the Red Sox play both the Miami Marlins and the New York Yankees, both of which Circiaco played a big role in.

On Monday, Ciriaco replaced infielder Nick Punto during the middle of the game and ended up hitting a walk-off two-run home run to edge the Marlins 5-3. 

Last night, Ciriaco replaced Dustin Pedroia towards the middle of the game and came up with another big hit, especially when it seemed like no one was going to score at all. What was later ruled a single with two errors, Ciriaco lined a ball down the right field line in the top of the ninth inning that got by Yankees outfielder Zoilo Almonte and rolled to the wall. Ciriaco hustled all the way to third but the relay throw got by everyone and he came in to score the lone run in a 1-0 victory for Boston. 

Now it could just be a lucky couple of days for Pedro Ciriaco or maybe he could be everything that we need. Regardless, it should be interesting to see if he can beat Jose Iglesias to the punch throughout the rest of spring.

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