Cape Coral resident thrives as Red Sox hitting coach

LEE COUNTY, Fla.- Successful Major League hitting coaches have to establish credibility and they have to earn the trust of their hitters.

“I think it’s all about trust,” said Red Sox Assistant Hitting Coach Victor Rodriguez. “I’ve been here a long time and most of the guys at the major league level, I had them in the minor leagues.”

Long-time Cape Coral resident Victor Rodriguez is entering his 20th season in the Red Sox organization. Over the past two weeks he’s been seen in constant interaction with three of the Red Sox most established hitters: David Ortiz, Pablo Sandoval and Hanley Ramirez.

“With Hanley, I had him when he was 16 years old… Way back,” said Rodriguez.

“Building relationships for Victor… It comes easy to him,” said Red Sox Manager John Farrell. “He’s very genuine. He’s knowledgeable and he works to gain and earn their respect.”

Ortiz, Ramirez and Sandoval have combined for 14 All-Star selections, eight Sliver Slugger awards, and 35 seasons in the major leagues.

“I’ve learned a lot about giving them room,” said Rodriguez on working with superstars. “When they struggle, they will come to you and you have to have that answer that’s simple, but hits the right spot to get them going in the right direction.”

Rodriguez has also helped coach at Cape Coral High, where his two sons both played baseball.