Doubront's new approach helps him earn W

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FORT MYERS, Fla.Last season wasnt an easy one for left-hander Felix Doubront. Although he made 11 big league appearances with no decisions and a 6.10 ERA, he battled injuries for almost the whole year, including spring training, and spent most of the season with Triple-A Pawtucket.

"A lot better," Doubront said of how he feels now compared to a year ago. "My off-season was the most important to me. I worked hard to get rid of the injuries from the past. I worked more on my legs and shoulder. I feel a lot different, my body feels probably more light and less pressure on my arm, and my legs are strong now."

Doubront earned the win, as the Red Sox beat Boston College, 6-3, completing a sweep of Saturdays doubleheader. He went two scoreless innings, allowing a hit with a strikeout.

"It seemed like he had his legs underneath him and threw all his pitches really well," said manager Bobby Valentine. "It seems like he's probably a little ahead of the other pitchers with his command and stuff right now. He's actually looked that way since he's been here."

Doubront has been working with pitching coach Bob McClure on a change to his delivery, making him land more on the front of his foot.

"My delivery today was awesome," he said. "I worked hard in my bullpens. I feel normal. The first time with the new delivery was a little bit hard to me because it was something I didn't do it before. So, tonight I feel like it's pretty good, my delivery and when I released the ball. I feel good."

Doubront, a contender for the rotation, said he feels confident in his abilities, and wants to prove it to Valentine.

"I got a lot of confidence," he said. "And I feel pretty much ready to be in Boston and a starter with the team. That's what I worked on to show the manager, that I want to be there."

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