Hermida returns as a Red Sox

As the Marlins were warming up on the back field at Roger Dean Stadium, a familiar face popped his head out of the weight room.

Jeremy Hermida, traded from the Marlins to Boston in the offseason, made the trip to Jupiter, Fla., on Tuesday to play against his former club.

Several players called out to Hermida, Florida’s first-round pick in 2002. And he spent a few minutes talking to some old friends.

“You definitely miss those guys,” Hermida said. “That’s the first time I’ve ever done this in my career, changing teams. You definitely miss those guys, you build relationships with them, no matter what. It’s tough to leave guys, but that’s part of the job. You meet some new guys here, and build new relationships.”

Hermida drove into Jupiter on Monday, and he spent the night at Cody Ross’s apartment.

Hermida said he received a warm reception the first time he stepped into the Boston clubhouse. In 2005, he was a September callup with Florida, and the roster then had Mike Lowell and Josh Beckett.

“It’s exciting being a part of this, playing for the Red Sox,” Hermida said. “A lot of kids grow up dreaming of playing in Fenway and putting a Boston uniform on. To get that opportunity is exciting.”

Hermida is sporting a full beard these days.

The Marlins have a more strict facial hair policy.

“That’s what you’re supposed to do in Boston, isn’t it?” Hermida quipped.

Ross said of Hermida: “He’s got that hair going, and the beard going.” 

– Joe Frisaro

(photo credit to Kelly Gavin/Florida Marlins)