Skip to content

Tulowitzki: 'Honestly, I can say I feel as good as new'

Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

Troy Tulowitzki is in the best shape of his life. So is every other player in baseball.

Tulowitzki's annual spring optimism was in full bloom Saturday as the oft-injured superstar described his mindset heading into next season. The Colorado Rockies shortstop says he's fully recovered from season-ending hip surgery and eager to prove his critics wrong. He claims he's healthy and motivated by a chip on his shoulder.

He's also well aware it's all been said before.

"Honestly, I can say I feel as good as new," Tulowitzki told reporters at a team event. "But at the same time, no one is going to believe me until they see me go out and see me play. Come to spring training, watch me play and then make your opinion."

The 30-year-old might have reason for a renewed sense of optimism. After seeing a specialist last summer, it was determined that his hip injury was likely a result of previous lower-body ailments. With the right treatment, it's possible doctors helped correct Tulowitzki's chronic medical mishaps. He knows no one is holding their breath.

"That stuff fuels me," Tulowitzki said. "Makes my workouts better. Makes me want it that much more."

Rockies manager Walt Weiss says he intends on giving Tulowitzki regular rest days, but admitted he's a believer things are bound to go his way.

"The law of averages," Weiss reasoned, "says he has a healthy year coming up."

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox