Kevin Long Getting An Early Start With Youkilis

From Dan Martin:

Long already has begun working with Rodriguez’s temporary replacement at third, visiting Kevin Youkilis in San Jose, Calif., last week.

“We looked at old film and compared it to 2012,” Long said. “We saw some considerable differences, mainly in his stance and it looked like the adjustments had an impact. ... I think we can get him back to being an all-star caliber player.”

Long plans on heading to Tampa shortly before pitchers and catchers arrive next month. He’s eager to put the pain of last year’s flameout against the Tigers in the ALCS behind him.

“It took a little longer for the sting to go away,” Long said of the sweep. “I feel like I’ve had a great career and done a great job, but that was a tough week. I feel good moving forward.”

I still think Long should have been fired after the way this team hit the last couple of seasons, but at least he's trying.