DUNEDIN, Fla. - After six years in the Boston Red Sox organization, Lars Anderson has gone on quite a ride in recent months.
"I think I've got five teams in seven months," the six-foot-four first baseman said Wednesday, two days after being claimed off waivers by the Toronto Blue Jays. "A little bit crazy."
Toronto acquired the 25-year-old Anderson for some depth at first base, after news that David Cooper has been sidelined with a serious back problem.
After his time in the Boston organization, Anderson said he thought perhaps it was time for a "fresh start."
"And I got more than a fresh start, I got five new seasons," he said with a laugh. "Kind of like be careful of what you wish for."
Boston traded him to Cleveland, who then shipped him to Arizona. The Diamondbacks designated him and he was claimed by the White Sox. When Chicago designated him, the Blue Jays picked him up on waivers.
Anderson, who says his first name is Swedish for 'crowned with laurels,' hopes he can stick with Toronto
"It's been great so far. The vibe is incredible here," said the San Francisco resident. "People are having fun. It's nice and relaxed and guys are getting their work done. I'm really happy to be here."
"This feels a little more like me," he added. "I feel like this is a place where I can be myself."
Asked to describe his strengths, the 215-pound Anderson said he hits the ball to all areas of the fields when he is going well. And he takes pride in his defence at first base.
Anderson, who has appeared on Baseball America's top 100 prospects list, saw major-league action in 30 games with Boston.
He is a .272 hitter in the minors, with 76 home runs and 415 RBIs in 748 games.
