July 4, 2009 Red Sox prospect Bates makes jump to Triple-A Play video

(NECN: Mike Giardi) - Red Sox prospect Aaron Bates was recently called up to Triple-A Pawtucket after a stellar showing in Double-A Portland to start the 2009 season.

Bates batted .340, hitting 7 home runs and driving in 39 in 206 at bats for the Sea Dogs.

Bates has shifted around the field a bit, but said that he enjoys playing -- not matter where his manager decides to play him.

"It's been great so far," Bates said. "I love playing, so anywhere they put me I'm happy -- first, left -- anywhere they want me to try, I'll try it out."

"The more you can treat it like you’re a little kid playing out there on the diamond, the easier it's always going to be," Bates said. "The big trick is you don't worry about what's going on around you -- you go out there and play hard and let the chips fall where they may."

Bates has struggled to get acclimated to Triple-A, hitting just .182 in 24 games, while hitting 2 home runs.

"You just don't see as many mistakes, I think," Bates said of jumping to the next level in the Red Sox minor league system.

Watch the entire interview in the video player above.