Lakeland, Fla. — Don’t mistake Michael Fulmer’s compliance and team-first willingness with acceptance.
He is absolutely willing to do whatever manager AJ Hinch thinks is best to facilitate wins this season. But he isn’t ready to be slotted in as a permanent bulk reliever just yet.
“I’m OK with going to the bullpen,” said Fulmer, the former American League Rookie of the Year who pitched three scoreless innings Sunday in his first action out of the bullpen since spring training of 2016. “I’m OK with whatever helps the team and in whatever aspect I can help the team win.