I wrapped up my third day of Spring Training ’07 by watching Pawtucket and Portland take on the Reds Affiliates at the minor league complex.

The minor league fields are more convenient to get around and catch up with players, coaches and Red Sox personal. I watched Kason Gabbard fire four strong innings for Pawtucket, fanning six batters according to Rob Henkel. Jose Vaquedano worked two effective innings in relief for Portland. I’m not sure who won both games and I’m not sure anybody at the complex had any idea.

During my travels, I talked with Andrew Dobies and Tommy Hottovy, who both could be part of the Portland’s starting rotation. The two lefthanders are very excited to get the season underway and make an impact wherever they pitch. Hottovy’s had a good spring and made one appearance with the Red Sox, pitching in Dice-K’s debut against Boston College.

Dusty Brown’s been in Florida since January 8 and can’t wait for the season to start. There’s a very good chance Brown and John Otness will share the catching duties with the ‘Dogs but even with opening day around the corner, the Red Sox brass has a lot of decisions to make.

Other players I talked with included: Randy Beam, Barry Hertzler, Edgar Martinez, Chris Smith, Chad Spann, and Scott Youngbauer.

Red Sox Director of Player Personal Mike Hazen told me to get some sun; you can always tell the new arrivals in Florida.

On Saturday I’ll be visiting the major league complex in the morning and watching Portland and Pawtucket in the afternoon.

Notables at the Minor League Complex: Ben Cherington, Tommy Harper, Frank Malzone and Carl Yastrzemski.

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