It's a day game after a night game situation today and yes there are some bleary eyes in the media room today! Including mine! The grind of Spring Training is not getting to us though!!
Ok, so here's the deal today...Padres and Brewers at 12:05 (ESPN 1700 with Ted, Jerry and Bob) and on Fox Sports San Diego (Dick Enberg, Mark Grant and ME for the middle 3) starting at 11:30am. The Padres also face the Mariners tonight in split squad action at the stadium at 6:05, no radio or tv.
Here's the lineup for the day game....
CF - Chris Denorfia
2B - Orlando Hudson
3B - Chase Headley
1B - Jesus Guzman
RF - Kyle Blanks
SS - Jason Bartlett
C - John Baker
LF - James Darnell
SP - Tim Stauffer
- Stauffer is making his final tuneup for perhaps an opening day start. He's been good as of late, giving up only 2 runs over his last 2 starts covering 11 innings of work.
News/Notes:
- Still no official announcement on an opening day starter, but again do the math, and you are all very smart people.
- Jeff Suppan will head to Tucson to begin a throwing program. Once he's up to pitching in a game, the Padres will send him to Peoria for extended spring training. Once those hurdles are passed, he would likely rejoin Tucson at that point.
- Carlos Quentin is progressing along the "medical timeline" the team set out for him post surgery. He's swinging a bat in the cage, but not standing up, he's sitting on a chair getting his work in without hurting the surgically repaired knee.
Alright, that's it for now....one more left after today!
Andy
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Friday, March 30, 2012
Night Time Is The Right Time...
Figured a nice tribute to one of music's greatest artists wouldn't be a bad way to start things off tonight. Ah, Ray Charles he could sing it a little bit.
***Breaking News*** (Updated 5:48pm PT)
The San Diego Padres just announced that they've agreed to terms with pitcher Cory Luebke on a contract extension, through the 2015 season with club options for 2016 and 2017.
Luebke figures prominently in the Padres plans in the rotation this season. Last year he was 6-10 overall, but 5-8 with a 3.31 ERA over his 17 starts. His 154 strikeouts were the second most ever by a Padres rookie.
Over his two seasons with Major League action, Luebke has gone 7-11 with a 3.38 ERA (59 ER/157.1 IP) and 172 strikeouts in 50 games (20 starts).
Luebke is the third young player locked up to a multi-year contract by GM Josh Byrnes this spring. He joins, Cameron Maybin and Nick Hundley among those getting long term deals.
Today's Game Info:
Getting ready for another game under the lights at Peoria Stadium, with the Padres hosting the San Francisco Giants. For those who care, the Padres are 18-12, having won 15 of their last 20 games, and the Giants are 16-11-3 entering play tonight. Dustin Moseley will face Barry Zito.
Padres Lineup: (XX 1090, 7pm, Ted Leitner and Bob Scanlan)
CF - Cameron Maybin
2B - Orlando Hudson
3B - Chase Headley
1B - Jesus Guzman
C - Nick Hundley
LF - Kyle Blanks
RF - Chris Denorfia
SS - Everth Cabrera
SP - Dustin Moseley
- Eight players currently in Major League camp with 10-or-more games are batting .300-or-better…the list includes Matt Clark (.425), Mark Kotsay (.357), Will Venable (.352), Chris
Denorfia (.333) , Yonder Alonso (.303) , Brad Davis (.300) , and Jeremy Hermida (.350).
***Breaking News*** (Updated 5:48pm PT)
The San Diego Padres just announced that they've agreed to terms with pitcher Cory Luebke on a contract extension, through the 2015 season with club options for 2016 and 2017.
Luebke figures prominently in the Padres plans in the rotation this season. Last year he was 6-10 overall, but 5-8 with a 3.31 ERA over his 17 starts. His 154 strikeouts were the second most ever by a Padres rookie.
Over his two seasons with Major League action, Luebke has gone 7-11 with a 3.38 ERA (59 ER/157.1 IP) and 172 strikeouts in 50 games (20 starts).
Luebke is the third young player locked up to a multi-year contract by GM Josh Byrnes this spring. He joins, Cameron Maybin and Nick Hundley among those getting long term deals.
Today's Game Info:
Getting ready for another game under the lights at Peoria Stadium, with the Padres hosting the San Francisco Giants. For those who care, the Padres are 18-12, having won 15 of their last 20 games, and the Giants are 16-11-3 entering play tonight. Dustin Moseley will face Barry Zito.
Padres Lineup: (XX 1090, 7pm, Ted Leitner and Bob Scanlan)
CF - Cameron Maybin
2B - Orlando Hudson
3B - Chase Headley
1B - Jesus Guzman
C - Nick Hundley
LF - Kyle Blanks
RF - Chris Denorfia
SS - Everth Cabrera
SP - Dustin Moseley
Moseley makes his fifth official Spring start, he did make a minor league start as well, and comes in with a record of 2-1 with a 2.40 ERA. Moseley has 9 strikeouts and no walks. He's on a streak of allowing just two earned runs in his past 17.1 Cactus League innings for a 1.04 ERA.
Spring Fun Facts:
How about these little stats, for what they are worth (courtesy of the Padres Media Relations):
- The Padres rank first in Majors in on-base percentage .366, slugging .477, OPS .843 and rank first in the NL in batting average .294.
Denorfia (.333) , Yonder Alonso (.303) , Brad Davis (.300) , and Jeremy Hermida (.350).
News/Notes:
- As noted above, both Orlando Hudson and Kyle Blanks are in the lineup tonight. Hudson was sent home ill yesterday, and hasn't played in 9 days. Expect to see both playing in the last three games in some form or fashion to get some at bats as Spring Training comes to an end.
- Jonathan Galvez was reassigned to minor league camp, reducing the Spring roster 37.
Publicity stunt:
I have a new public Facebook page and I'd like you to like it. Almost went all Cheap Trick on you there didn't I? It's https://www.facebook.com/AndyMasurBroadcaster. Check it out and "Like" it. I thank you.
Because the Night:
As you have already figured out, music is my second passion to sports. I'm all about a good tune and tonight, it's time to bust out some of the greatest songs with the word Night in the title...(in no particular order)
Night Time Is The Right Time - Ray Charles
Night Moves - Bob Seger
Shadows of the Night - Pat Benatar
Fly By Night - Rush
You Shook Me All Night Long - AC/DC
In The Air Tonight - Phil Collins
Night Fever - Bee Gees
Rock and Roll All Night - Kiss
All Night Long - Joe Walsh
Hard Days Night - Beatles
Rock Me Tonight - Billy Squier
Summer Nights - John Travolta/Olivia Newton John
Again just a few of the better ones....bring on some others!
Have a great night!
Andy
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Things Starting to Take Shape
As opening day gets closer and closer, so does the focus on the 2012 San Diego Padres roster. We still don't officially know who the starter on opening day will be, but that announcement is coming soon (we hope!) from Bud Black. Going down to the final days are position battles, between Andy Parrino and Everth Cabrera. Each got a glowing tip of the cap today from Black saying "it's a good battle, each have individually stepped up their game". Black has cast a critical eye on each especially when it comes to fundamentals and little things. "Bench guys have to be as mistake free as possible", Black added.
We also found out today that Mark Merila the longtime bullpen catcher has been assigned a new role within the organization, I have the details later in the blog. Make sure you scroll down.
Lineup v. Cubs (1pm ESPN 1700, Scanlan/Coleman/Masur)
CF - Will Venable
LF - Mark Kotsay
1B - Yonder Alonso
C - Nick Hundley
RF - Chris Denorfia
3B - James Darnell
SS - Jason Bartlett
2B - Everth Cabrera
SP - Clayton Richard
Richard will make his fourth Cactus League start, he's made another start in a minor league game. Clayton is 0-1, with a 5.59 ERA, but don't let that fool you. The fact that he's fully recovered from the shoulder issue last season is the most notable thing to come out of his camp. The fact that he's made every start and done all his side work on schedule is a good thing as we head closer to the games starting for real.
News/Notes:
- Luke Gregerson will throw today, saying his back feels much better.
- Kyle Blanks is ready to start playing, he's on the lineup card as a bench guy and could play today.
Stumping for Stumpy
We found out today, that long time bullpen catcher Mark Merila, will be taking on a new role in the organization. He is going to be a professional scout, and working under the direction of AJ Hinch. Merila will be responsible for scouting teams in his hometown of Minneapolis. His base of operations will be Target Field and he may also cover the minor leagues in Iowa, where the Cubs Triple-A affiliate is located. He'll send reports back on players that the Padres may be interested in acquiring near the trade deadline.
Merila is in his 17th season with the team and never imagined he'd be with one team for that long a period of time. He seemed emotional at times talking about transitioning away from being with the players on a daily basis, to a new role that he is in many ways looking forward to. Merila has talked to guys like John Vander Wal about the move to scouting and soaked up some information about how to grow the role.
The guy they call "Stumpy" was a 33rd round pick of the Padres in 1994 and played two years in the minors before becoming the bullpen catcher in 1996. He played collegiately at Minnesota where he was a two time all American second baseman. He began having health problems during his senior year. Collapsing on the field at one point, being rushed to a hospital where it was determined he had a cancerous brain tumor. Merlia fought it, and returned to baseball completing his senior year. But his minor league career was hindered by radiation treatments and he decided to accept a different role.
After 10 years of relative good health, without warning in 2005, he suffered a seizure while riding the subway to Shea Stadium in New York. The brain tumor recurred and the fight resumed. Merila recovered to the point that he was back around the team on a daily basis, and was always a smiling face in the clubhouse.
I'm not sure he even realizes the impact he's made the players. When Scott Linebrink was traded from the Padres to the Brewers in 2007, Linebrink requested the number 71 with Milwaukee, the same number Merila has worn with the Padres. Trevor Hoffman, the greatest closer of all time, always made sure that "Stumpy" was taken care of, knowing the kind of impact he had on Trevor's career and life.
It will be strange not seeing Merila around every day, but this is a good opportunity for him. I'll miss his smiling face and warm greeting every time we'd return to Petco following a long road trip. I will also miss our great and detailed discussions about each of our's 2nd favorite sport, hockey.
Stumpy is a good man, and I wish him nothing but the best of luck in his new role with the Padres.
Mud, what are you thinking?
After our meeting with Bud Black and Mark Merila today, we walked through the clubhouse to notice Mark Grant sitting at a table with a huge wrap around his right leg. According to the Fox Sports San Diego color analyst he 'blew out' his right hamstring, trying to race 1st base coach Dave Roberts in the 40 yard dash. Sounds like Mud got to about the 20 yard mark and had to 'roll' over the finish line.
So in this case, slow and I do mean slow, and steady did not win the race.
That's it for now....
Andy
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Closer to the finish...
Wednesday in Peoria and as we discussed on the air yesterday, Buddy Black is changing things up a little to guard against the late spring monotony.
Today his meeting with the players was pushed back an hour and the report time followed suit. Some though gathered in the clubhouse ahead of schedule and were gathered around the TV to watch the first MLB game of the year (albeit on tape delay) from Japan, as the Mariners beat the A's in 11 innings. I'm sure it gave the players comfort knowing that soon the spring will turn into the reality of the regular season.
For some today was packing up day, and not for a trip to San Diego. A couple of players found out that they aren't going to be on the major league roster, catcher Yasmani Grandal was optioned to Triple-A Tucson, and LHP Alex Hinshaw was reassigned to minor league camp.
Bud Black was very complimentary of the young catcher, who in the manager's words "had a good camp here". Black cited the work Grandal put in with Tucson manager Terry Kennedy and catching instructor Brad Ausmus as key to helping the catcher get better on the defensive side. Black said "they worked him hard on the mechanics" and other subtleties of the position. Black was impressed over the last 10 days with the power shown by Grandal at the plate as well. Grandal is progressing nicely, "it's a compliment to him, he's staying at a high level (triple-a) after being a 2010 draft choice", said Black.
Hinshaw was a tough cut. He showed a good live fastball and used his slider effectively. Hinshaw had some good moments and also some rough outings. "With Alex it's about consistency from outing to outing", said Black. Hinshaw's ball/strike ratio was something else that Black said, needs to "improve".
With today's moves, the Padres spring roster stands at 38 players.
News/Notes:
- Black says that Orlando Hudson is still on schedule to play tomorrow. He's "close" to returning. Hudson has been out since March 21 with the reoccurrence of the groin injury that cost him 8 days earlier this spring.
- Kyle Blanks is scheduled to take batting practice today.
- Luke Gregerson's back is still sore and he won't throw today. He is listed as day to day.
Today's Lineup @ Glendale: (Ted Leitner/Bob Scanlan/Jerry Coleman, 1pm on ESPN 1700)
CF - Cameron Maybin
RF - Will Venable
3B - Chase Headley
DH- Jesus Guzman
1B - Yonder Alonso
LF - Jeremy Hermida
C - John Baker
SS- Jason Bartlett
2B - Andy Parrino
----
SP - Edinson Volquez
It will be the fifth start of the spring for the Padres right hander. Volquez last start was under the lights in Peoria against his former team the Reds. He went 5.2 innings, allowed 2 hits and 2 runs, along with 2 walks and 6 strikeouts. He's penciled in as the #3 starter in the rotation for the Padres.
Alright, here's the quote of the day from Mariner's reliever Tom Wilhelmsen on the team's trip to Japan....
"I think I need a week to decompress and realize we really did this," Wilhelmsen told MLB.com. "We really went to Japan and played ball. But right now it's pretty overwhelming. Well, I don't know about overwhelming, but very special. Maybe just 'whelming.'"
Love that...whelming!
Take care everybody...
Andy
Today his meeting with the players was pushed back an hour and the report time followed suit. Some though gathered in the clubhouse ahead of schedule and were gathered around the TV to watch the first MLB game of the year (albeit on tape delay) from Japan, as the Mariners beat the A's in 11 innings. I'm sure it gave the players comfort knowing that soon the spring will turn into the reality of the regular season.
For some today was packing up day, and not for a trip to San Diego. A couple of players found out that they aren't going to be on the major league roster, catcher Yasmani Grandal was optioned to Triple-A Tucson, and LHP Alex Hinshaw was reassigned to minor league camp.
Bud Black was very complimentary of the young catcher, who in the manager's words "had a good camp here". Black cited the work Grandal put in with Tucson manager Terry Kennedy and catching instructor Brad Ausmus as key to helping the catcher get better on the defensive side. Black said "they worked him hard on the mechanics" and other subtleties of the position. Black was impressed over the last 10 days with the power shown by Grandal at the plate as well. Grandal is progressing nicely, "it's a compliment to him, he's staying at a high level (triple-a) after being a 2010 draft choice", said Black.
Hinshaw was a tough cut. He showed a good live fastball and used his slider effectively. Hinshaw had some good moments and also some rough outings. "With Alex it's about consistency from outing to outing", said Black. Hinshaw's ball/strike ratio was something else that Black said, needs to "improve".
With today's moves, the Padres spring roster stands at 38 players.
News/Notes:
- Black says that Orlando Hudson is still on schedule to play tomorrow. He's "close" to returning. Hudson has been out since March 21 with the reoccurrence of the groin injury that cost him 8 days earlier this spring.
- Kyle Blanks is scheduled to take batting practice today.
- Luke Gregerson's back is still sore and he won't throw today. He is listed as day to day.
Today's Lineup @ Glendale: (Ted Leitner/Bob Scanlan/Jerry Coleman, 1pm on ESPN 1700)
CF - Cameron Maybin
RF - Will Venable
3B - Chase Headley
DH- Jesus Guzman
1B - Yonder Alonso
LF - Jeremy Hermida
C - John Baker
SS- Jason Bartlett
2B - Andy Parrino
----
SP - Edinson Volquez
It will be the fifth start of the spring for the Padres right hander. Volquez last start was under the lights in Peoria against his former team the Reds. He went 5.2 innings, allowed 2 hits and 2 runs, along with 2 walks and 6 strikeouts. He's penciled in as the #3 starter in the rotation for the Padres.
Alright, here's the quote of the day from Mariner's reliever Tom Wilhelmsen on the team's trip to Japan....
"I think I need a week to decompress and realize we really did this," Wilhelmsen told MLB.com. "We really went to Japan and played ball. But right now it's pretty overwhelming. Well, I don't know about overwhelming, but very special. Maybe just 'whelming.'"
Love that...whelming!
Take care everybody...
Andy
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Opening Day Preview?
9 days, 216 hours, 12,960 minutes until the opener April 5, and of course it's the Dodgers in town to open up the 2012 baseball season against the Padres at Petco Park.
The opponent is the same today, but the feeling won't be quite as intense as next Thursday but we'll play it anyway! Padres and Dodgers is just one of the games today, the Padres split squad will be in Surprise to face the Rangers, with Cory Luebke working against Texas. Casey Kelly will head to the hill for the Padres in Peoria, in the game you'll hear on ESPN Radio 1700, starting at 1pm. Join, Jerry Coleman, Bob Scanlan and me for the game.
Here's the Peoria Lineup:
CF - Cameron Maybin
RF - Will Venable
3B - Chase Headley
1B - Yonder Alonso
C - Nick Hundley
LF - Mark Kotsay
SS - Jason Bartlett
2B - Everth Cabrera
SP - Casey Kelly
This will be Kelly's fifth outing of the spring, and second start. He gave up his first runs in his last game against the Rockies, 2 runs in 4 innings of work. Kelly is 1-0 with a 1.80 ERA. This is the first spring he's working on a new and more aggressive delivery, one he's utilizing after both Buddy Black and Darren Balsley suggested he speed things up and make the hitter a little less comfortable at the plate. The manager and pitching coach also suggested a move to the first base side of the pitching rubber. Both moves have been met with success and now just need to be fine tuned.
The Dodgers are brining the "A" squad with them for the most part today....Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier, James Loney and Juan Rivera will be in the lineup today. Hoping to run into Tony Gwynn Jr, to get an update on Mr Padre. Stay tuned.
Surprise, AZ lineup:
CF - Chris Denorfia
RF - Jeremy Hermida
LF - Jesus Guzman
1B - Matt Clark
DH - Yasmani Grandal
3B - Jedd Gyorko
C - John Baker
2B - Jonathan Galvez
SS - Andy Parrino
SP - Cory Luebke
Luebke makes his 5th start and is on pace to pitch the second game of the year against the Dodgers at Petco Park. He has a 1-0 record with a 1.93 ERA in his work this spring.
News/Notes:
I was previously engaged when manager Bud Black spoke today, I'll tell you why shortly, but my good friend Corey Brock had me covered and reports these findings from the meeting: (Check out his blog)
The opponent is the same today, but the feeling won't be quite as intense as next Thursday but we'll play it anyway! Padres and Dodgers is just one of the games today, the Padres split squad will be in Surprise to face the Rangers, with Cory Luebke working against Texas. Casey Kelly will head to the hill for the Padres in Peoria, in the game you'll hear on ESPN Radio 1700, starting at 1pm. Join, Jerry Coleman, Bob Scanlan and me for the game.
Here's the Peoria Lineup:
CF - Cameron Maybin
RF - Will Venable
3B - Chase Headley
1B - Yonder Alonso
C - Nick Hundley
LF - Mark Kotsay
SS - Jason Bartlett
2B - Everth Cabrera
SP - Casey Kelly
This will be Kelly's fifth outing of the spring, and second start. He gave up his first runs in his last game against the Rockies, 2 runs in 4 innings of work. Kelly is 1-0 with a 1.80 ERA. This is the first spring he's working on a new and more aggressive delivery, one he's utilizing after both Buddy Black and Darren Balsley suggested he speed things up and make the hitter a little less comfortable at the plate. The manager and pitching coach also suggested a move to the first base side of the pitching rubber. Both moves have been met with success and now just need to be fine tuned.
The Dodgers are brining the "A" squad with them for the most part today....Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier, James Loney and Juan Rivera will be in the lineup today. Hoping to run into Tony Gwynn Jr, to get an update on Mr Padre. Stay tuned.
Surprise, AZ lineup:
CF - Chris Denorfia
RF - Jeremy Hermida
LF - Jesus Guzman
1B - Matt Clark
DH - Yasmani Grandal
3B - Jedd Gyorko
C - John Baker
2B - Jonathan Galvez
SS - Andy Parrino
SP - Cory Luebke
Luebke makes his 5th start and is on pace to pitch the second game of the year against the Dodgers at Petco Park. He has a 1-0 record with a 1.93 ERA in his work this spring.
News/Notes:
I was previously engaged when manager Bud Black spoke today, I'll tell you why shortly, but my good friend Corey Brock had me covered and reports these findings from the meeting: (Check out his blog)
– 2B Orlando Hudson (strained right groin) will play Thursday. He’s also scheduled to play through the weekend. The last game here in Arizona is Sunday.
– 1B/OF Kyle Blanks is “feeling better,” according to Bud Black. Could still be a DL candidate to begin the season.
– RHP Jeff Suppan (strained right triceps) will test his triceps by playing catch today.
– RHP Luke Gregerson was supposed to pitch Monday but was bothered by a back spasm. He’s on the list to pitch against the Rangers today, so we’ll see if the team gives him one more day or not.
– OF Jeremy Hermida has a ligament strain of his left pinky finger. He’s in the lineup against the Rangers.
Thanks Corey!
My excuse!
I couldn't make the manager's meeting today, because I was on a conference call with MLB Network. They have asked me to be the "Padres Ball Park Cam Correspondent" and I have accepted. I will be on from time to time during MLB Network's "Run Down" show during the week from 12 noon - 2 pm PT. MLB Network has really done a nice job with covering EVERY team, unlike a certain four letter station (hint, ESPN), and they've reached out to me to provide some national coverage of our Padres. They will also be checking my Twitter account to see what people want to know about the Padres, so when the regular season starts, make sure you tweet some questions, and they may show up on air! If you aren't following me yet, you can at @Padscast and start thinking of some questions. I'll try to let you know in the blog and on Twitter when I'll be on. Really looking forward to the chance to talk Padres baseball with the entire country!
Alright, talk to you on the radio today!
Andy
Monday, March 26, 2012
The Dog Days of Spring?
Here we go, into the final week of the spring and the manager Bud Black is aware of the "Dog Days of Spring" and is mixing things up. He has had different report times to the ballpark, he's changed up the workout routine, he's given guys days off, all in an effort to keep the players fresh, mentally and physically. As I've discovered over the last 5 plus years, there isn't much Black isn't aware of, or hasn't thought of. He's good like that.
Padres and Cubs today in Mesa, we'll have the game on ESPN Radio 1700, I'll be joined by Bob Scanlan starting at 1pm.
Here's the lineup:
CF - Will Venable
RF - Chris Denorfia
C - Nick Hundley
1B - Matt Clark
3B - James Darnell
LF - Jaff Decker
SS - Everth Cabrera
2B - Andy Parrino
SP - Tim Stauffer
Stauffer comes in off a solid outing against the Dodgers last week. Black told us today that during the side session before the LA start, Darren Balsley noticed a slight mechanical flaw in Stauffer's delivery. The two worked on it and the results were good. Now it's all about repeating that delivery and having a similar outing today in Mesa. Although Black hasn't officially announced anything about an opening day starter, all I'll say is do the math.
News/Notes:
- Orlando Hudson will take grounders today here in Peoria to test out his injured groin. If all goes well, we may see him in the lineup later this week.
- Kyle Blanks is better, but still not ready to play in a game. The window is closing for him to be able to start the season on an active roster. The Padres will have to determine soon if Blanks will start the year on the disabled list.
This date in baseball history:
- It was a tough day on this date in 2000 for a young Corey Brock, who had to watch as the Kingdome in Seattle was imploded in less than 20 seconds. The long time home of the Mariners and Seahawks came crashing to the ground March 26, 2000.
Alright, I'm off to Mesa...have a great day!
Andy
Sunday, March 25, 2012
Another Pleasant Valley Sunday...
It's another beautiful day in the Valley of the Sun as the last week of Cactus League baseball games begins. Today the Padres face the defending NL West Champs, the Airzona Diamondbacks. It will be Dustin Moseley going for the Padres and Josh Collmenter goes for the Dbacks.
Here's the Padres lineup:
CF - Cameron Maybin
RF - Mark Kotsay
3B - Chase Headley
LF - Jesus Guzman
1B - Yonder Alonso
C - John Baker
SS - Jason Bartlett
2B - Everth Cabrera
SP - Dustin Moseley
Game time today is at 1pm, join Jerry Coleman, Bob Scanlan and me for the call on XX 1090.
News/Notes:
- The Padres today made some roster moves today, they have reassigned four players to minor league camp, including right-handed pitchers Miles Mikolas and Matt Palmer, infielder Jedd Gyorko and outfielder Jaff Decker. In addition, the club has optioned infielder Jeudy Valdez to Double-A San Antonio. The Padres spring roster now stands at 41 players.
- Kyle Blanks and Orlando Hudson are still progressing from injuries, and still no timetable on their return to the lineup. Caught up with Blanks today, still wearing a wrap on the shoulder, he said that the shot last week helped, but it's still not feeling normal.
- Nick Hundley came out of his start yesterday feeling good. He'll get some at bats in a minor league game today, so he can catch up. He had missed 10 days before playing yesterday.
- Here's a fun fact, given to us by manager Bud Black today...in yesterday's win over the Cubs in Mesa, the pitching staff threw a total of only 96 pitches. Think about how many pitches a guy will have through five or six innings at times during the year and it's more than that on occasion. Pretty impressive stuff from Anthony Bass and Micah Owings among others.
Something a little different:
With not much taking place on a Sunday, let's switch it up a bit and give you some facts about the day in history, what happened on this day, March 25...
- The #1 Song on this day in:
- Birthdays: Sarah Jessica Parker born today in 1965; former Atlanta pitcher Tom Glavine was born today in 1966 and race car driver Danica Patrick was born today in 1982.
Ok, a little twist there for you and I hope you enjoyed it. Fun to look those numbers up as well.
Have a great Sunday!
Andy
Here's the Padres lineup:
CF - Cameron Maybin
RF - Mark Kotsay
3B - Chase Headley
LF - Jesus Guzman
1B - Yonder Alonso
C - John Baker
SS - Jason Bartlett
2B - Everth Cabrera
SP - Dustin Moseley
Game time today is at 1pm, join Jerry Coleman, Bob Scanlan and me for the call on XX 1090.
News/Notes:
- The Padres today made some roster moves today, they have reassigned four players to minor league camp, including right-handed pitchers Miles Mikolas and Matt Palmer, infielder Jedd Gyorko and outfielder Jaff Decker. In addition, the club has optioned infielder Jeudy Valdez to Double-A San Antonio. The Padres spring roster now stands at 41 players.
- Kyle Blanks and Orlando Hudson are still progressing from injuries, and still no timetable on their return to the lineup. Caught up with Blanks today, still wearing a wrap on the shoulder, he said that the shot last week helped, but it's still not feeling normal.
- Nick Hundley came out of his start yesterday feeling good. He'll get some at bats in a minor league game today, so he can catch up. He had missed 10 days before playing yesterday.
- Here's a fun fact, given to us by manager Bud Black today...in yesterday's win over the Cubs in Mesa, the pitching staff threw a total of only 96 pitches. Think about how many pitches a guy will have through five or six innings at times during the year and it's more than that on occasion. Pretty impressive stuff from Anthony Bass and Micah Owings among others.
Something a little different:
With not much taking place on a Sunday, let's switch it up a bit and give you some facts about the day in history, what happened on this day, March 25...
- The #1 Song on this day in:
- 1980: Pink Floyd, "Another Brick In The Wall, Part 2"
- 1987: Club Nouveau, "Lean On Me"
- 1990: Alanna Myles, "Black Velvet"
- 1998: Will Smith "Gettin' Jiggy With It"
- Birthdays: Sarah Jessica Parker born today in 1965; former Atlanta pitcher Tom Glavine was born today in 1966 and race car driver Danica Patrick was born today in 1982.
Ok, a little twist there for you and I hope you enjoyed it. Fun to look those numbers up as well.
Have a great Sunday!
Andy
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Split Squad Saturday...
As the finish line gets closer and closer, the games keep churning here in the desert. The Padres will play two today, a game in Peoria against the Reds and a game in Mesa against the Cubs. I will be attending neither as it turns out, a rare but appreciated day off. We will broadcast today's game from Peoria, starting at 1pm on XX1090, Ted Leitner, Jerry Coleman and Bob Scanlan will have the call. I'll return for tomorrow's game with Bob against the Diamondbacks from Peoria.
Here's today's lineups:
v. Reds -
CF - Cameron Maybin
LF - Mark Kotsay
3B - Chase Headley
1B - Jesus Guzman
C - Nick Hundley
RF - Chris Denorfia
SS - Jason Bartlett
2B - Everth Cabrera
SP - Clayton Richard
v. Cubs (Mesa)
CF - Will Venable
3B - Jedd Gyorko
1B - Yonder Alonso
LF - James Darnell
C - Yasmani Grandal
RF - Jeremy Hermida
SS - Andy Parrino
2B - Jonathan Galvez
SP - Anthony Bass
Richard will make his 3rd start of the spring in an "A" game, he did make a start in a minor league game last Monday on the off day. That start drew rave reviews from pitching coach Darren Balsley saying it was perhaps the best he'd ever seen Clayton throw.
Bass will make his 5th start as he vies for a spot in the Padres bullpen. He's 1-0 with a 2.00 ERA previous to his start at Mesa today.
Other news/notes:
- As you noticed above, Nick Hundley is back in the lineup. A right side injury has kept him out since March 14.
- Status quo on Kyle Blanks and Orlando Hudson. Both are progressing and are still day to day, with no timetable set for a return to playing.
- A new injury today, with Jeff Suppan coming down with a strained right triceps suffered in his last start.
- Buddy Black continues to sing the praises of the two guys battling for the back up infield spot, Everth Cabrera and Andy Parrino. Parrino made a spectacular catch in last night's game at 2nd base. Both guys have been competing, and playing hard in Black's estimation.
A little UT love...
Amber Harding of the UT, did a little video feature, behind the scenes in the broadcast booth the other day. The video is now up on the UT's web site. Click here
Funny moment...
So earlier this spring, Corey Brock and I were out shopping for some beer at a local spot, when I stumbled across a beer bottle that bore a striking resemblance to a certain former Padres pitcher...
You know who right? Of course, Mike Adams! So last night, I randomly bumped into the now Rangers pitcher and had to show him this picture. He was doubled over laughing hysterically denying of course that he lent his mug for this mug of beer. I believe him! Good stuff.
Alright enjoy your Saturday....
Andy
Here's today's lineups:
v. Reds -
CF - Cameron Maybin
LF - Mark Kotsay
3B - Chase Headley
1B - Jesus Guzman
C - Nick Hundley
RF - Chris Denorfia
SS - Jason Bartlett
2B - Everth Cabrera
SP - Clayton Richard
v. Cubs (Mesa)
CF - Will Venable
3B - Jedd Gyorko
1B - Yonder Alonso
LF - James Darnell
C - Yasmani Grandal
RF - Jeremy Hermida
SS - Andy Parrino
2B - Jonathan Galvez
SP - Anthony Bass
Richard will make his 3rd start of the spring in an "A" game, he did make a start in a minor league game last Monday on the off day. That start drew rave reviews from pitching coach Darren Balsley saying it was perhaps the best he'd ever seen Clayton throw.
Bass will make his 5th start as he vies for a spot in the Padres bullpen. He's 1-0 with a 2.00 ERA previous to his start at Mesa today.
Other news/notes:
- As you noticed above, Nick Hundley is back in the lineup. A right side injury has kept him out since March 14.
- Status quo on Kyle Blanks and Orlando Hudson. Both are progressing and are still day to day, with no timetable set for a return to playing.
- A new injury today, with Jeff Suppan coming down with a strained right triceps suffered in his last start.
- Buddy Black continues to sing the praises of the two guys battling for the back up infield spot, Everth Cabrera and Andy Parrino. Parrino made a spectacular catch in last night's game at 2nd base. Both guys have been competing, and playing hard in Black's estimation.
A little UT love...
Amber Harding of the UT, did a little video feature, behind the scenes in the broadcast booth the other day. The video is now up on the UT's web site. Click here
Funny moment...
So earlier this spring, Corey Brock and I were out shopping for some beer at a local spot, when I stumbled across a beer bottle that bore a striking resemblance to a certain former Padres pitcher...
You know who right? Of course, Mike Adams! So last night, I randomly bumped into the now Rangers pitcher and had to show him this picture. He was doubled over laughing hysterically denying of course that he lent his mug for this mug of beer. I believe him! Good stuff.
Alright enjoy your Saturday....
Andy
Friday, March 23, 2012
Peoria, at night....
Good afternoon all, and greetings from the media room at the Peoria Sports Complex. 2nd scheduled night game of the spring is coming up tonight at 7pm. Before we get to the news and notes, here is the Padres lineup tonight...
CF - Cameron Maybin
LF - Mark Kotsay
3B - Chase Headley
1B - Yonder Alonso
RF - Will Venable
C - John Baker
SS - Everth Cabrera
2B - Andy Parrino
SP - Edinson Volquez
Volquez will start against his former team the Reds tonight. He was an all-star in 2008, going 17-6 with a 3.21 ERA for Cincinnati. This will be his 4th start of the spring and he is scheduled to go 5 innings. He's coming off a crazy outing against the Giants in Scottsdale. The rain and hail came down in his final inning, where Volquez walked a couple of batters gave up a triple and a run came in on a wild pitch. Volquez was having all sorts of problems getting the mud from out of his spikes. He had no landing area and each baseball put into play was basically soaking wet. All things considered he did a great job, just finishing the inning. The Padres won the game 5-1.
News/Notes:
News from the manager's desk.....
- Kyle Blanks had an injection in his sore shoulder the other day, he's improving and is considered day to day.
- Orlando Hudson is progressing from a 'tweak' of his right groin injury, and is also considered day to day.
- Nick Hundley (right oblique) is scheduled to play in one of the Padres split squad games tomorrow. He's been out since March 14th.
- Carlos Quentin returned to the clubhouse today, with his knee wrapped and holding some crutches. He didn't appear to be using the crutches, instead walking gingerly around greeting teammates. He said the surgery went well. Original time frame from the surgery to recovery was 4-6 weeks.
- Bud Black traveled with the split squad to Tucson yesterday and reported to us today that Yasmani Grandal was the star of the game. He hit a homer that cleared the batter's eye in center, without any help from the wind, and made a great block on a ball, then threw a runner out on the base paths. Black also mentioned that Andy Parrino looked good at shortstop.
Ear wax build up?
So today I started preparing for my stints on television this year, by getting outfitted with all the technical gear one needs. That includes a little earpiece that is used to hear instructions from the TV truck, from the producer or director. This instrument is called an IFB, and in order to make sure it doesn't pop out of your ear, there is a company that makes custom fit earpieces. So with the help of seasoned veteran Mudcat Grant, we took a mold of my right ear to send away. Of course I had to walk around with this 'silly puddy' like substance in my ear, for about 15-20 minutes. It was at this point of course that we were summoned into the manager's office for our chat. I felt a bit silly since the mold was visible to everybody. Ah, the price of fame in the big city huh?
That's it for now. Join Uncle Teddy and Bob Scanlan for the broadcast tonight on XX 1090 starting at 7pm.
Andy
CF - Cameron Maybin
LF - Mark Kotsay
3B - Chase Headley
1B - Yonder Alonso
RF - Will Venable
C - John Baker
SS - Everth Cabrera
2B - Andy Parrino
SP - Edinson Volquez
Volquez will start against his former team the Reds tonight. He was an all-star in 2008, going 17-6 with a 3.21 ERA for Cincinnati. This will be his 4th start of the spring and he is scheduled to go 5 innings. He's coming off a crazy outing against the Giants in Scottsdale. The rain and hail came down in his final inning, where Volquez walked a couple of batters gave up a triple and a run came in on a wild pitch. Volquez was having all sorts of problems getting the mud from out of his spikes. He had no landing area and each baseball put into play was basically soaking wet. All things considered he did a great job, just finishing the inning. The Padres won the game 5-1.
News/Notes:
News from the manager's desk.....
- Kyle Blanks had an injection in his sore shoulder the other day, he's improving and is considered day to day.
- Orlando Hudson is progressing from a 'tweak' of his right groin injury, and is also considered day to day.
- Nick Hundley (right oblique) is scheduled to play in one of the Padres split squad games tomorrow. He's been out since March 14th.
- Carlos Quentin returned to the clubhouse today, with his knee wrapped and holding some crutches. He didn't appear to be using the crutches, instead walking gingerly around greeting teammates. He said the surgery went well. Original time frame from the surgery to recovery was 4-6 weeks.
- Bud Black traveled with the split squad to Tucson yesterday and reported to us today that Yasmani Grandal was the star of the game. He hit a homer that cleared the batter's eye in center, without any help from the wind, and made a great block on a ball, then threw a runner out on the base paths. Black also mentioned that Andy Parrino looked good at shortstop.
Ear wax build up?
So today I started preparing for my stints on television this year, by getting outfitted with all the technical gear one needs. That includes a little earpiece that is used to hear instructions from the TV truck, from the producer or director. This instrument is called an IFB, and in order to make sure it doesn't pop out of your ear, there is a company that makes custom fit earpieces. So with the help of seasoned veteran Mudcat Grant, we took a mold of my right ear to send away. Of course I had to walk around with this 'silly puddy' like substance in my ear, for about 15-20 minutes. It was at this point of course that we were summoned into the manager's office for our chat. I felt a bit silly since the mold was visible to everybody. Ah, the price of fame in the big city huh?
That's it for now. Join Uncle Teddy and Bob Scanlan for the broadcast tonight on XX 1090 starting at 7pm.
Andy
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Padres and Indians 3/22/2012
Good morning all from the Peoria Sports Complex in Peoria, AZ. Today the Padres will return to their 'home' ballpark and face the Cleveland Indians in a Cactus League game. Only half the squad is here, the other is with manager Bud Black in Tucson, making up the game that was scheduled for last Sunday, facing the Rockies. Bench coach Rick Renteria will guide the team today here in P-town.
Here's today's starters...
CF - Cameron Maybin
RF - Will Venable
3B - Chase Headley
LF - Jesus Guzman
1B - Yonder Alonso
SS - Jason Bartlett
C - John Baker
2B - Everth Cabrera
SP - Cory Luebke
Luebke is slated to go 5 innings today as he tunes up for what will probably be the second game of the regular season if things stay on pace. Cory has had a nice spring and is developing nicely into the starter that the organization felt he'd be when they took him in the supplemental round in the 2007 draft. This will be his fourth start of the spring as he comes in with a 1-0 record and a 2.00 ERA. He's worked in 9 innings, giving up only 8 hits while striking out 10 batters. Also expected to pitch here in Peoria, Huston Street, Alex Hinshaw, Luke Gregerson, and Matt Palmer.
News/Notes:
With Bud Black in Tucson, we won't have our regular meeting with the manager before the game, I'm wondering why we couldn't 'face-time' or 'skype'? But there are some things going on here we can tell you about...
- Orlando Hudson 'tweaked' that right groin injury yesterday at Glendale, running out what turned out to be a double play ball. Black said after the game he didn't think it was as bad as the initial injury and Hudson is not in the lineup today.
- Tim Stauffer looked impressive in his start against the Dodgers. Reading between the lines with no official announcement, it looks as though Stauffer could get his second consecutive opening day start. Again, just guessing, no inside knowledge, no intel, no word from the brass here, just a little speculation on my part. Ok?
- It's getting down to crunch time for those that, to borrow a March Madness term, "on the bubble" for this roster. The spots that several are battling for are still the utility infield position and a player to replace the injured Carlos Quentin. The names, Cabrera, Parrino, Guzman and Blanks pop up often in this conversation.
- By the way, speaking of Jesus Guzman, I asked him yesterday about his Twitter account @15JesusGuzman that claims to be the "official twitter account" is in fact NOT, Jesus Guzman. So don't be fooled by imitation, Guzman says that it's not him, or anybody affiliated with him, operating the account. So just be warned.
- I'm going to be joined by Bob Scanlan and Jerry Coleman in the booth today for our game in Peoria. You can catch us on ESPN Radio 1700 starting at 1pm.
That's it for now...
Andy
Here's today's starters...
CF - Cameron Maybin
RF - Will Venable
3B - Chase Headley
LF - Jesus Guzman
1B - Yonder Alonso
SS - Jason Bartlett
C - John Baker
2B - Everth Cabrera
SP - Cory Luebke
Luebke is slated to go 5 innings today as he tunes up for what will probably be the second game of the regular season if things stay on pace. Cory has had a nice spring and is developing nicely into the starter that the organization felt he'd be when they took him in the supplemental round in the 2007 draft. This will be his fourth start of the spring as he comes in with a 1-0 record and a 2.00 ERA. He's worked in 9 innings, giving up only 8 hits while striking out 10 batters. Also expected to pitch here in Peoria, Huston Street, Alex Hinshaw, Luke Gregerson, and Matt Palmer.
News/Notes:
With Bud Black in Tucson, we won't have our regular meeting with the manager before the game, I'm wondering why we couldn't 'face-time' or 'skype'? But there are some things going on here we can tell you about...
- Orlando Hudson 'tweaked' that right groin injury yesterday at Glendale, running out what turned out to be a double play ball. Black said after the game he didn't think it was as bad as the initial injury and Hudson is not in the lineup today.
- Tim Stauffer looked impressive in his start against the Dodgers. Reading between the lines with no official announcement, it looks as though Stauffer could get his second consecutive opening day start. Again, just guessing, no inside knowledge, no intel, no word from the brass here, just a little speculation on my part. Ok?
- It's getting down to crunch time for those that, to borrow a March Madness term, "on the bubble" for this roster. The spots that several are battling for are still the utility infield position and a player to replace the injured Carlos Quentin. The names, Cabrera, Parrino, Guzman and Blanks pop up often in this conversation.
- By the way, speaking of Jesus Guzman, I asked him yesterday about his Twitter account @15JesusGuzman that claims to be the "official twitter account" is in fact NOT, Jesus Guzman. So don't be fooled by imitation, Guzman says that it's not him, or anybody affiliated with him, operating the account. So just be warned.
- I'm going to be joined by Bob Scanlan and Jerry Coleman in the booth today for our game in Peoria. You can catch us on ESPN Radio 1700 starting at 1pm.
That's it for now...
Andy
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
BEAT LA! BEAT LA! BEAT LA!
Ok, so it may not have the luster of say, the season opener at home against the Dodgers, Thursday April 5, but it's always fun to practice right? Say it with me now, BEAT LA! BEAT LA! BEAT LA! Nice. So as you guessed, the Padres will face the Dodgers today at the Camelback Ranch facility in nearby Glendale, Arizona this afternoon at 1pm. Tim Stauffer will face LA's lefty Ted Lilly in this one, with Stauffer scheduled to go 5 innings as he gets ready for the regular season. Will he be facing the Dodgers on that April 5 opener? Not sure, Bud Black is not tipping his hand yet, but Stauffer is certainly a strong candidate to be there.
Padres Lineup:
Padres Lineup:
24 Cameron Maybin CF
1 Orlando Hudson (S) 2B
15 Jesus Guzman LF
23 Yonder Alonso (L) 1B
13 Chris Denorfia RF
22 James Darnell 3B
12 Yasmani Grandal (S) C
2 Everth Cabrera (S) SS
46 Tim Stauffer P
So as you noticed above, Orlando Hudson is playing for the first time in a while. He's been out since March 13th with a strained right groin.
News/Notes:
Kyle Blanks is still a little banged up according to Bud Black. He is listed as day to day. Tough deal for a guy that is trying to earn a spot on the roster. Blanks does have history with the team, so obviously Black knows what he's getting, but a player always likes to do his talking on the field and make it a much tougher choice for the staff. Now Blanks has to wait until his shoulder is better.
Bud Black will be heading to Tucson tomorrow for the split squad game there. This was the game that was scheduled for last Sunday but was postponed due to impending bad weather. Casey Kelly is slated to start the game. The bus to Tucson departs before 8am tomorrow, so we will not have our regular morning session with the manager.
Today was the start of the anual basketball shout out that the Padres hold just outside the clubhouse near the staff parking lot. It's usually a great time and a good team building exercise. Today the coaches took on the relievers and the coaches advanced in the tournament. Over the years the basketball experience and sharpshooters have left the team. Chris Young the two sport star at Princeton and Mike Adams are among those former title holders. It's fun to watch and see how into it the team gets.
As you've probably figured out about me, I am a HUGE fan of Dunkin Donuts coffee. Growing up in Chicago there was a DD on every corner basically. I find out that they are coming to California but only on the Camp Pendelton base which is great for the men and women there, but not for us civilian types. So every chance I get be it on the road or here in Arizona, I grab one or two every day. Today I pulled into the DD near the complex, and after first pouring me a cup of decaff (what's the point really?), the clerk poured it out, then began filling my medium cup with regular when the cup sprang a leak. Feeling bad, the gentleman upgraded me to the BIG BOY, the XL coffee...
It's a tower of coffee, probably more than any one human should drink at one time, but have no fear, I did it. It's all gone. Bud Black told me that this is the size that Joe Maddon used to drink on a daily basis when the two worked in Anaheim. Probably the only thing I have in common with Maddon, but I'll take it. Please Dunkin Donuts, open some stores in California, so I don't have to buy the stores in Arizona out of their K-cups!!!!!!!
Have a great day, the team is off to Glendale, and I'm off today, so it's Ted, Bob and Jerry joining you at 1pm on ESPN Radio 1700.
Andy
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Padres Extend Backstop and Face Rockies...
For the second time during this spring training, the Padres locked up one of their core players. Early in camp it was Cameron Maybin's five year deal and today the team announced Nick Hundley agreed to terms on a three year extension with an option for a fourth year. He'll make $2 M this year, $3 M next season, $4 M in 2014 and the option is worth $5 M with no buyout.
GM Josh Byrnes told us that the two sides began talking in January during Hundley's arbitration, tabled the negotiations for a couple of months and got it done today. Byrnes likes the fact that Hundley is home grown and has gone from a young player to a leader in the clubhouse. Offensively Byrnes thinks that Hundley is getting a lot better and that he hits at Petco Park is certainly a plus.
The Padres, on paper, would seem to have catching depth, with John Baker, and the addition of Yasmani Grandal, but Byrnes doesn't see it as overcrowded. He called it "a premium position" and depth while it may seem to make things crowded doesn't always turn out that way.
Nick Hundley just joined us in the media room in Peoria, and looked like a happy man. Hundley was hoping the deal would get done. He told us preliminary talks began under Jed Hoyer last year but got serious quickly under Josh Byrnes. Hundley said the talks were both "exciting and stressful" and he's happy to be a Padre for the foreseeable future.
Hundley is happy the Padres are making commitments to locking up young players, thus keeping them around. The team has seen some talent leave due to financial situations and now at least two of the younger players are going to be around for a few years.
Leadership was addressed, and Hundley talked about the trait starting with everyday preparation. Hundley specifically mentioned watching Chris Young, David Eckstein and Greg Maddux go about their business and learned from it. He also mentioned the even keel of manager Bud Black, and learned to be consistent every day. "Whether it's bad or good (result of the game) leave everything out there (on the field)", he said. As a young catcher he soaked up all the information that he could. He credited by name, Ted Simmons, Josh Bard, Henry Blanco, Rob Johnson and Brad Ausmus and several that he's really learned from. He added "you could write a novel to tell you everybody that's helped" and agreed it's now his turn to help the younger players in the clubhouse these days learn the ways of a big leaguer, both on and off the field.
Petco Park and hitting there came up as well. Hundley was quite candid about things. He said, "you have to be honest with yourself. I've never really hit a ball 100 percent and have it not go out". On teammates complaining about balls not going out, "Hit the ball better. Don't come back to the dugout and complain about a ball that you didn't hit all the way. Square it up." Interesting stuff.
On his goals, that have yet to be reached..."I want to win, and be one of the best catchers in the game."
On a personal note, I'm glad he's going to be around for a while. Nick is one of the best guys consistently in that clubhouse and is turning into a very good player.
We'll talk to Bud Black a little later today and I'll update the blog as needed later.
Here's the lineup for tonight's game v. Colorado...(Ted Leitner and Bob Scanlan on the call on XX1090)
CF - Cameron Maybin
RF - Will Venable
3B - Chase Headley
1B - Yonder Alonso
LF - Mark Kotsay
SS - Jason Bartlett
C - John Baker
2B - Andy Parrino
SP - Joe Wieland
This will be Wieland's second spring start and third overall appearance. His first start was in Scottsdale 6 days ago against the Diamondbacks. He was impressive in four innings of work, giving up only 2 hits and striking out 4 batters. Overall this spring, he's 0-1, with a 6.00 but that was after a rough outing in his first game in big league camp.
Such a life saver!
In the Padres office, the receptionist always has a dish of life savers candy out for us to grab, which I tend to do way too often. Today, I got a bonus in the individually wrapped package! Check it out!
Thinking it may be time to buy a lottery ticket tonight!
Ok, more later in an update once we chat with Bud Black.
Andy
***Updated 4:22 pm***
Bud Black was very happy for Nick Hundley and his contract extension. Black said it was great to see the organization make a commitment to a young player like Hundley. He said Nick has made a lot of progress from his early days in the big leagues in 2008, "he's checked off a lot of boxes. Nick has come a long way at a demanding position."
On Hundley's leadership abilities, Black said, "Nick is one of those players that when he walks through the clubhouse doors other players feel better." High praise. Black also noted that experience is the greatest teacher for a catcher.
Other news/notes:
Orlando Hudson wanted to play tonight, but Black will give him another day and put him in there tomorrow.
Kyle Blanks may miss a couple of games with a sore left shoulder.
Dustin Moseley pitched in a minor league game today and went 5 good innings.
Casey Kelly will start the Padres split squad game in Tucson on Thursday.
Dale Thayer has impressed Bud Black this spring. He'll likely go 2 innings in his next outing. Thayer's velocity was better than Black thought. "He's put himself on the radar."
Alright...talk to you all tomorrow!
Andy
GM Josh Byrnes told us that the two sides began talking in January during Hundley's arbitration, tabled the negotiations for a couple of months and got it done today. Byrnes likes the fact that Hundley is home grown and has gone from a young player to a leader in the clubhouse. Offensively Byrnes thinks that Hundley is getting a lot better and that he hits at Petco Park is certainly a plus.
The Padres, on paper, would seem to have catching depth, with John Baker, and the addition of Yasmani Grandal, but Byrnes doesn't see it as overcrowded. He called it "a premium position" and depth while it may seem to make things crowded doesn't always turn out that way.
Nick Hundley just joined us in the media room in Peoria, and looked like a happy man. Hundley was hoping the deal would get done. He told us preliminary talks began under Jed Hoyer last year but got serious quickly under Josh Byrnes. Hundley said the talks were both "exciting and stressful" and he's happy to be a Padre for the foreseeable future.
Hundley is happy the Padres are making commitments to locking up young players, thus keeping them around. The team has seen some talent leave due to financial situations and now at least two of the younger players are going to be around for a few years.
Leadership was addressed, and Hundley talked about the trait starting with everyday preparation. Hundley specifically mentioned watching Chris Young, David Eckstein and Greg Maddux go about their business and learned from it. He also mentioned the even keel of manager Bud Black, and learned to be consistent every day. "Whether it's bad or good (result of the game) leave everything out there (on the field)", he said. As a young catcher he soaked up all the information that he could. He credited by name, Ted Simmons, Josh Bard, Henry Blanco, Rob Johnson and Brad Ausmus and several that he's really learned from. He added "you could write a novel to tell you everybody that's helped" and agreed it's now his turn to help the younger players in the clubhouse these days learn the ways of a big leaguer, both on and off the field.
Petco Park and hitting there came up as well. Hundley was quite candid about things. He said, "you have to be honest with yourself. I've never really hit a ball 100 percent and have it not go out". On teammates complaining about balls not going out, "Hit the ball better. Don't come back to the dugout and complain about a ball that you didn't hit all the way. Square it up." Interesting stuff.
On his goals, that have yet to be reached..."I want to win, and be one of the best catchers in the game."
On a personal note, I'm glad he's going to be around for a while. Nick is one of the best guys consistently in that clubhouse and is turning into a very good player.
We'll talk to Bud Black a little later today and I'll update the blog as needed later.
Here's the lineup for tonight's game v. Colorado...(Ted Leitner and Bob Scanlan on the call on XX1090)
CF - Cameron Maybin
RF - Will Venable
3B - Chase Headley
1B - Yonder Alonso
LF - Mark Kotsay
SS - Jason Bartlett
C - John Baker
2B - Andy Parrino
SP - Joe Wieland
This will be Wieland's second spring start and third overall appearance. His first start was in Scottsdale 6 days ago against the Diamondbacks. He was impressive in four innings of work, giving up only 2 hits and striking out 4 batters. Overall this spring, he's 0-1, with a 6.00 but that was after a rough outing in his first game in big league camp.
Such a life saver!
In the Padres office, the receptionist always has a dish of life savers candy out for us to grab, which I tend to do way too often. Today, I got a bonus in the individually wrapped package! Check it out!
 |
| What a life saver! |
Ok, more later in an update once we chat with Bud Black.
Andy
***Updated 4:22 pm***
Bud Black was very happy for Nick Hundley and his contract extension. Black said it was great to see the organization make a commitment to a young player like Hundley. He said Nick has made a lot of progress from his early days in the big leagues in 2008, "he's checked off a lot of boxes. Nick has come a long way at a demanding position."
On Hundley's leadership abilities, Black said, "Nick is one of those players that when he walks through the clubhouse doors other players feel better." High praise. Black also noted that experience is the greatest teacher for a catcher.
Other news/notes:
Orlando Hudson wanted to play tonight, but Black will give him another day and put him in there tomorrow.
Kyle Blanks may miss a couple of games with a sore left shoulder.
Dustin Moseley pitched in a minor league game today and went 5 good innings.
Casey Kelly will start the Padres split squad game in Tucson on Thursday.
Dale Thayer has impressed Bud Black this spring. He'll likely go 2 innings in his next outing. Thayer's velocity was better than Black thought. "He's put himself on the radar."
Alright...talk to you all tomorrow!
Andy
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Rain Drops and Giants...3/18/2012
The weather has turned here in Arizona. The storm that rolled through San Diego yesterday hit us at around 4am (from what I'm told) this morning. The folks in Scottsdale tell us the game will be played between the Padres and Giants, but whether or not it will go uninterrupted is another story. Stay tuned.
Padres lineup:
CF - Cameron Maybin
RF - Chris Denorfia
3B - Chase Headley
LF - Jesus Guzman
1B - Yonder Alonso
SS - Jason Bartlett
C - Yasmani Grandal
2B - Andy Parrino
SP - Edinson Volquez
This will be Volquez's third spring start. He's scheduled for 4 innings today. In his previous 5 innings of work, he's allowed 3 runs and 3 hits. Volquez seems happy with his spring to this point, and looks comfortable in Padres clubhouse. Darren Balsley worked on a few mechanical adjustments early in camp, and so far so good. Volquez is only 28 and after his injury (Tommy John surgery) is young in innings as well.
We could see, depending on the weather and the game, Casey Kelly throw some innings today in Scottsdale. Also on the list are Micah Owings, Anthony Bass, Dale Thayer and maybe former Giant Alex Hinshaw.
News/Notes:
I just have to mention how much I enjoy our morning sessions with Buddy Black. The manager treats us very well, and that's not always the case in every clubhouse. Buddy is great to deal with and you most often times leave his office in a better mood than when you entered. I feel so fortunate to have been able to work with some great managers in my career as a broadcaster. From Jim Riggleman to Don Baylor, to Dusty Baker and now here with Buddy. It makes the job fun and a lot easier to do.
Ok, off the soap box and now on to the "nuts and bolts" as we call it around here....
Nick Hundley's side is improving, but not to the point of being able to swing a bat yet. Hundley was hoping for a Tuesday return, but Buddy Black told us today that there is no official timetable for a return to action.
Orlando Hudson is hitting in the cage today and is closer to returning to the lineup. He's been out with a right groin strain since last week. Hudson will take today and tomorrow off and could be back in there by Tuesday or Wednesday.
As I mentioned yesterday, with Carlos Quentin out with the knee surgery, there is going to be an opportunity for somebody to grab some playing time. Buddy Black indicated today, that a number of different players will continue to get a look in LF, including Kyle Blanks, Jesus Guzman, Chris Denorfia, Jeremy Hermida and Mark Kotsay. Quentin's surgery is scheduled for tomorrow in San Diego.
Quote of the day....
From the old adage 'if you can't laugh at yourself, who can you laugh at?', I zinged myself last night on the broadcast. At one point talking about the fine line of executing a play or not, I said to Bob Scanlan, "You know they are trying, but people are human...". Really? Wow! I believe those words are going to be carved in stone in the new downtown central library near the ballpark. Very profound don't you think?
Bob, Jerry and I will have the game for you today (maybe with a little rain delay theater mixed in) from Scottsdale on XX 1090 starting at 1pm. Join us.
Andy
Padres lineup:
CF - Cameron Maybin
RF - Chris Denorfia
3B - Chase Headley
LF - Jesus Guzman
1B - Yonder Alonso
SS - Jason Bartlett
C - Yasmani Grandal
2B - Andy Parrino
SP - Edinson Volquez
This will be Volquez's third spring start. He's scheduled for 4 innings today. In his previous 5 innings of work, he's allowed 3 runs and 3 hits. Volquez seems happy with his spring to this point, and looks comfortable in Padres clubhouse. Darren Balsley worked on a few mechanical adjustments early in camp, and so far so good. Volquez is only 28 and after his injury (Tommy John surgery) is young in innings as well.
We could see, depending on the weather and the game, Casey Kelly throw some innings today in Scottsdale. Also on the list are Micah Owings, Anthony Bass, Dale Thayer and maybe former Giant Alex Hinshaw.
News/Notes:
I just have to mention how much I enjoy our morning sessions with Buddy Black. The manager treats us very well, and that's not always the case in every clubhouse. Buddy is great to deal with and you most often times leave his office in a better mood than when you entered. I feel so fortunate to have been able to work with some great managers in my career as a broadcaster. From Jim Riggleman to Don Baylor, to Dusty Baker and now here with Buddy. It makes the job fun and a lot easier to do.
Ok, off the soap box and now on to the "nuts and bolts" as we call it around here....
Nick Hundley's side is improving, but not to the point of being able to swing a bat yet. Hundley was hoping for a Tuesday return, but Buddy Black told us today that there is no official timetable for a return to action.
Orlando Hudson is hitting in the cage today and is closer to returning to the lineup. He's been out with a right groin strain since last week. Hudson will take today and tomorrow off and could be back in there by Tuesday or Wednesday.
As I mentioned yesterday, with Carlos Quentin out with the knee surgery, there is going to be an opportunity for somebody to grab some playing time. Buddy Black indicated today, that a number of different players will continue to get a look in LF, including Kyle Blanks, Jesus Guzman, Chris Denorfia, Jeremy Hermida and Mark Kotsay. Quentin's surgery is scheduled for tomorrow in San Diego.
Quote of the day....
From the old adage 'if you can't laugh at yourself, who can you laugh at?', I zinged myself last night on the broadcast. At one point talking about the fine line of executing a play or not, I said to Bob Scanlan, "You know they are trying, but people are human...". Really? Wow! I believe those words are going to be carved in stone in the new downtown central library near the ballpark. Very profound don't you think?
Bob, Jerry and I will have the game for you today (maybe with a little rain delay theater mixed in) from Scottsdale on XX 1090 starting at 1pm. Join us.
Andy
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Quentin to have knee surgery....out up to 4 Weeks
First night game of the spring tonight and a bunch of news from Padres camp today...
We found out that new outfielder Carlos Quentin will undergo arthroscopic knee surgery on the off day Monday back in San Diego. It's his right knee and there is torn meniscus and some other 'floating particles' that are causing him pain. The original problem took place about 4 days into camp. Quentin's right knee was being treated and monitored and was feeling better until sliding into 2nd base during a game last week. The knee swelled up that night and after consulting with the training staff, the decision was made to have the surgery now, to as Buddy Black said, "knock it out" and not compromise a significant chunk of the season. It's usually about a 4 week injury, but every case is different of course. Quentin sounded confident that he would only miss a couple of weeks of the season, but of course nobody is sure of that exact time frame.
In other news...
Chris Denorfia could see some time in the game tonight. He's been out all spring with a lower back injury. He's played in a couple of minor league games recently and Buddy Black told us not to be surprised to see "Deno" in the game against the Royals.
Nick Hundley's side (right) is getting better, he hopes to be back in the lineup by Tuesday.
Orlando Hudson is going through "baseball activities" today and could be healthy enough (right groin strain) to play by the middle of next week.
Mark Kotsay, the Padres 37 year old outfielder, got 6 at bats today in a minor league game. Just to stay fresh.
Padres lineup tonight:
CF - Cameron Maybin
RF - Will Venable
3B - Chase Headley
LF - Jesus Guzman
1B - Yonder Alonso
C - John Baker
2B - Jonathan Galvez
SS - Andy Parrino
SP - Cory Luebke
The Padres will not use the DH tonight, but the Royals will. Strange huh? Luebke is scheduled to go 4 innings and Jeff Suppan is also slated to go 4, with Huston Street and Brad Boxberger each penciled in for 1. I know that equals 10 innings but again, Boxberger is there in case somebody needs a bailout during an inning. Remember it's in PENCIL!!
It's getting very windy and cloudy here in Arizona, and the flags are blowing straight out toward center field. The rain is expected here by sometime around 10pm tonight. Tomorrow's games (@ Scottsdale v. Giants and @ Tucson) could be iffy. Stay tuned!
Join Bob Scanlan and me tonight on XX 1090 for the game, starting at 7pm.
We found out that new outfielder Carlos Quentin will undergo arthroscopic knee surgery on the off day Monday back in San Diego. It's his right knee and there is torn meniscus and some other 'floating particles' that are causing him pain. The original problem took place about 4 days into camp. Quentin's right knee was being treated and monitored and was feeling better until sliding into 2nd base during a game last week. The knee swelled up that night and after consulting with the training staff, the decision was made to have the surgery now, to as Buddy Black said, "knock it out" and not compromise a significant chunk of the season. It's usually about a 4 week injury, but every case is different of course. Quentin sounded confident that he would only miss a couple of weeks of the season, but of course nobody is sure of that exact time frame.
In other news...
Chris Denorfia could see some time in the game tonight. He's been out all spring with a lower back injury. He's played in a couple of minor league games recently and Buddy Black told us not to be surprised to see "Deno" in the game against the Royals.
Nick Hundley's side (right) is getting better, he hopes to be back in the lineup by Tuesday.
Orlando Hudson is going through "baseball activities" today and could be healthy enough (right groin strain) to play by the middle of next week.
Mark Kotsay, the Padres 37 year old outfielder, got 6 at bats today in a minor league game. Just to stay fresh.
Padres lineup tonight:
CF - Cameron Maybin
RF - Will Venable
3B - Chase Headley
LF - Jesus Guzman
1B - Yonder Alonso
C - John Baker
2B - Jonathan Galvez
SS - Andy Parrino
SP - Cory Luebke
The Padres will not use the DH tonight, but the Royals will. Strange huh? Luebke is scheduled to go 4 innings and Jeff Suppan is also slated to go 4, with Huston Street and Brad Boxberger each penciled in for 1. I know that equals 10 innings but again, Boxberger is there in case somebody needs a bailout during an inning. Remember it's in PENCIL!!
It's getting very windy and cloudy here in Arizona, and the flags are blowing straight out toward center field. The rain is expected here by sometime around 10pm tonight. Tomorrow's games (@ Scottsdale v. Giants and @ Tucson) could be iffy. Stay tuned!
Join Bob Scanlan and me tonight on XX 1090 for the game, starting at 7pm.
Friday, March 16, 2012
Padres and Angels today....3/16/2012
Greetings on a sunny Friday morning in the desert. Today the Padres face the Angels for the second time this spring. The teams will meet in the regular season in inter-league play, at Petco Park, May 18-20, a Friday-Sunday series. Just can't shake that Pujols guy!
Padres Lineup today:
CF - Cameron Maybin
RF - Will Venable
LF - Jesus Guzman
1B - Kyle Blanks
3B - Jedd Gyorko
SS - Jason Bartlett
2B - Andy Parrino
C - Brad Davis
SP - Tim Stauffer
Nick Hundley was in the original lineup but has been scratched. No updates as of yet on him, keep a watch on my Twitter page for updates later. Also we hope to find out how Carlos Quentin is doing after a sore knee kept him out of the lineup yesterday against the Brewers.
The Angels lineup is not an 'everyday' starting unit...
2B - Alexi Amarista
SS - Jean Segura
3B - Alberto Callaspo
C - Hank Conger
1B - Jorge Cantu
RF - Kole Calhoun
CF - Ryan Langerhans
LF - Doug Deeds
SP - Brad Mills (L)
Rants/Raves:
Every year I take part in at least one Bracket Challenge for the NCAA Tourney (for entertainment purposes only of course!) and never in the many many years of picking had I ever had a perfect day. I'm still searching thanks to UNLV. If the Rebels of Las Vegas would have played a decent game and not had to try to come back late I would have been 16 for 16. Ugh. 15 for 16 ain't bad, that kind of batting average would put me in the Hall of Fame.
There was an interesting note about UConn's first round loss yesterday to Iowa State. It marked just the second time since 1979 that the Huskies lost a first round game. Can you remember the first? I can, I was there to witness it in all it's glory. The 70-69 OT win by the then 13th seeded USD Toreros over the 4th seeded Huskies in Tampa. What a day and run that was. There's just something about the tournament mystique and if you've lived it or had your favorite team go on a run, it's unforgettable.
What's with CBS Sportsline charging money now to watch NCAA Tournament games on demand on your computer or iPad? It's only $3.99, but isn't CBS making like 15 trillion dollars from the NCAA to televise the games? Give us a break! I paid it of course, but still, come on!
Ok that's that for now. Join Jerry, Bob Scanlan and me for today's game against the Angels. We'll be on XX1090 today, starting at 1pm. Please join us.
Padres Lineup today:
CF - Cameron Maybin
RF - Will Venable
LF - Jesus Guzman
1B - Kyle Blanks
3B - Jedd Gyorko
SS - Jason Bartlett
2B - Andy Parrino
C - Brad Davis
SP - Tim Stauffer
Nick Hundley was in the original lineup but has been scratched. No updates as of yet on him, keep a watch on my Twitter page for updates later. Also we hope to find out how Carlos Quentin is doing after a sore knee kept him out of the lineup yesterday against the Brewers.
The Angels lineup is not an 'everyday' starting unit...
2B - Alexi Amarista
SS - Jean Segura
3B - Alberto Callaspo
C - Hank Conger
1B - Jorge Cantu
RF - Kole Calhoun
CF - Ryan Langerhans
LF - Doug Deeds
SP - Brad Mills (L)
Rants/Raves:
Every year I take part in at least one Bracket Challenge for the NCAA Tourney (for entertainment purposes only of course!) and never in the many many years of picking had I ever had a perfect day. I'm still searching thanks to UNLV. If the Rebels of Las Vegas would have played a decent game and not had to try to come back late I would have been 16 for 16. Ugh. 15 for 16 ain't bad, that kind of batting average would put me in the Hall of Fame.
There was an interesting note about UConn's first round loss yesterday to Iowa State. It marked just the second time since 1979 that the Huskies lost a first round game. Can you remember the first? I can, I was there to witness it in all it's glory. The 70-69 OT win by the then 13th seeded USD Toreros over the 4th seeded Huskies in Tampa. What a day and run that was. There's just something about the tournament mystique and if you've lived it or had your favorite team go on a run, it's unforgettable.
What's with CBS Sportsline charging money now to watch NCAA Tournament games on demand on your computer or iPad? It's only $3.99, but isn't CBS making like 15 trillion dollars from the NCAA to televise the games? Give us a break! I paid it of course, but still, come on!
Ok that's that for now. Join Jerry, Bob Scanlan and me for today's game against the Angels. We'll be on XX1090 today, starting at 1pm. Please join us.
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Off to Maryvale....3/15/2012
Padres hit the road again to face the Brewers at their Maryvale Complex in East Phoenix. Many of the newer spring facilities have nice amenities around, like restaurants, shopping and bars, not this one. Do the math.
Dustin Moseley set to make his 3rd start of the Spring against Milwaukee...
Padres Lineup:
CF - Jaff Decker
LF - Jesus Guzman
3B - Chase Headley
RF - Carlos Quentin
1B - Yonder Alonso
SS - Jason Bartlett
C - John Baker
2B - Everth Cabrera
SP - Dustin Moseley
Should see Micah Owings for a couple of innings today as well as Josh Spence for an inning against the Brewers.
News/Notes:
- The Padres sent 8 players to minor league camp today: Pitchers, Erik Hamren, Robbie Erlin, Juan Oramas, and Jose De Paula; Outfielders, Blake Tekotte, and Rymer Liriano; Infielder, Edinson Rincon; and catcher Jason Hagerty. Buddy Black saying these guys need some at bats and to play consistently, and they'll get the chance in the minor league games which start today.
- Tough deal for pitcher Nick Vincent. He was getting ready for the game yesterday, when he accidentally stepped on a ball in the bullpen. He rolled his ankle and sprained it. Vincent was in a boot today and also had some x-rays taken. Results will be known later today.
- Orlando Hudson told Corey Brock of MLB.com that he was "ready to rock and roll" after missing yesterday's game with a groin strain. Jonathan Galvez was called over from Goodyear to start in Hudson's place in Scottsdale.
Join Bob Scanlan and me for today's game on ESPN Radio 1700, we go on the air at 1pm.
Andy
Dustin Moseley set to make his 3rd start of the Spring against Milwaukee...
Padres Lineup:
CF - Jaff Decker
LF - Jesus Guzman
3B - Chase Headley
RF - Carlos Quentin
1B - Yonder Alonso
SS - Jason Bartlett
C - John Baker
2B - Everth Cabrera
SP - Dustin Moseley
Should see Micah Owings for a couple of innings today as well as Josh Spence for an inning against the Brewers.
News/Notes:
- The Padres sent 8 players to minor league camp today: Pitchers, Erik Hamren, Robbie Erlin, Juan Oramas, and Jose De Paula; Outfielders, Blake Tekotte, and Rymer Liriano; Infielder, Edinson Rincon; and catcher Jason Hagerty. Buddy Black saying these guys need some at bats and to play consistently, and they'll get the chance in the minor league games which start today.
- Tough deal for pitcher Nick Vincent. He was getting ready for the game yesterday, when he accidentally stepped on a ball in the bullpen. He rolled his ankle and sprained it. Vincent was in a boot today and also had some x-rays taken. Results will be known later today.
- Orlando Hudson told Corey Brock of MLB.com that he was "ready to rock and roll" after missing yesterday's game with a groin strain. Jonathan Galvez was called over from Goodyear to start in Hudson's place in Scottsdale.
Join Bob Scanlan and me for today's game on ESPN Radio 1700, we go on the air at 1pm.
Andy
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Padres v. White Sox 3/13/2012
Another busy morning here in Peoria. Just wrapped up our media session with Buddy and I'll have those notes for you later in the post.
First here's today's lineup against the White Sox....
CF - Cameron Maybin
2B - Orlando Hudson
3B - Chase Headley
1B - Jesus Guzman
C - Nick Hundley
RF - Will Venable
SS - Jason Bartlett
DH - Jeremy Hermida
LF - Jaff Decker
SP - Edinson Volquez
Volquez will make his second start of the spring. Last outing he pitched two scoreless innings against the Giants, giving up a couple of hits and hitting a batter. He worked on locating his fastball down and away to right handed hitters and looked good in doing it. Volquez of course figures prominently into the rotation for the Padres, after coming over from Cincinnati in the Mat Latos trade.
News/Notes:
Injury updates....
Everth Cabrera and Kyle Blanks are both getting better, to the point that they each could be in the lineup tomorrow with split squad games in Scottsdale (Diamondbacks) and Goodyear (Reds). Cabrera is nursing a sore shoulder, and Blanks a leg injury.
Robbie Erlin suffered what Buddy Black termed a "mild oblique strain"on his left side. The young lefty will be out about a week. He's not exactly sure when or how it happened. These are the types of injuries that can be made worse by trying to pitch thru it, so the Padres will be cautious with him the next few days.
A sad story from Padres camp late yesterday and today, regarding prospect Drew Cumberland, who made a comeback attempt after having vertigo type issues last season. Corey Brock of MLB.com and @FollowThePadres fame, wrote a very nice story on the 2nd retirement for Cumberland. Follow the link here to the story http://tinyurl.com/7puanvk
Today's game from Peoria will be on ESPN Radio 1700, with Ted Leitner, Jerry Coleman and Bob Scanlan bringing you the action starting at 1pm.
Have a great day!
Andy
First here's today's lineup against the White Sox....
CF - Cameron Maybin
2B - Orlando Hudson
3B - Chase Headley
1B - Jesus Guzman
C - Nick Hundley
RF - Will Venable
SS - Jason Bartlett
DH - Jeremy Hermida
LF - Jaff Decker
SP - Edinson Volquez
Volquez will make his second start of the spring. Last outing he pitched two scoreless innings against the Giants, giving up a couple of hits and hitting a batter. He worked on locating his fastball down and away to right handed hitters and looked good in doing it. Volquez of course figures prominently into the rotation for the Padres, after coming over from Cincinnati in the Mat Latos trade.
News/Notes:
Injury updates....
Everth Cabrera and Kyle Blanks are both getting better, to the point that they each could be in the lineup tomorrow with split squad games in Scottsdale (Diamondbacks) and Goodyear (Reds). Cabrera is nursing a sore shoulder, and Blanks a leg injury.
Robbie Erlin suffered what Buddy Black termed a "mild oblique strain"on his left side. The young lefty will be out about a week. He's not exactly sure when or how it happened. These are the types of injuries that can be made worse by trying to pitch thru it, so the Padres will be cautious with him the next few days.
A sad story from Padres camp late yesterday and today, regarding prospect Drew Cumberland, who made a comeback attempt after having vertigo type issues last season. Corey Brock of MLB.com and @FollowThePadres fame, wrote a very nice story on the 2nd retirement for Cumberland. Follow the link here to the story http://tinyurl.com/7puanvk
Today's game from Peoria will be on ESPN Radio 1700, with Ted Leitner, Jerry Coleman and Bob Scanlan bringing you the action starting at 1pm.
Have a great day!
Andy
Monday, March 12, 2012
Padres v. Rockies 3/12/2012
Week #2 of Cactus League games...as the finish line gets a little closer! Today the Padres will be at the newest facility in Arizona, the Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, the complex shared by the Diamondbacks and today's opponent, the Rockies. After a lot of investigation last year, we were unable to locate a stick that actually talked at the stadium. What a bummer.
Today's Padres lineup...
CF - Cameron Maybin
RF - Mark Kotsay
1B - Yonder Alonso
LF - Carlos Quentin
3B - James Darnell
C - John Baker
SS - Jason Bartlett
2B - Andy Parrino
SP - Cory Luebke
Luebke is coming off a great outing at Goodyear against the Reds. Look for him to go 3 innings today. Also slated for 3 innings is Jeff Suppan. The veteran pitcher looked good in his first Padres start. He was over shadowed by Yu-Mania that day.
Colorado Rockies
The Rockies will throw Jeremy Guthrie today. He was acquired in the off season from Baltimore for Jason Hammel and Matt Lindstrom. Guthrie was 9-17 last year.
Colorado finished just ahead of the Padres in the NL West last season, with a record of 73-89, 21 games out of first place.
The Padres and Rockies season series wound up even at 9-9. The oddity, the Padres were only 3-6 at Petco, but 6-3 at Coors Field last year.
News/Notes:
The Padres reassigned 5 players to minor league camp today. Pitchers Cory Burns, and Jorge Reyes, catchers Ali Solis and Eddy Rodriguez, and infielder Cory Spangenberg. Buddy Black said that some of these guys could pop up still in "A" games, depending on need. Black was very complimentary of Spangenberg, who they timed at 3.95 out of the batters box to first base in a game last week (by the way that's fast). Spangenberg got valuable coaching from Glenn Hoffman and, good experience in the big league camp.
Some minor injury news, Kyle Blanks has a sore leg and will need a couple of days off. Everth Cabrera is battling a minor shoulder injury and needs a couple of days as well.
Today's Broadcast...
Bob Scanlan will join me today from Scottsdale, for Padres and Rockies. We go on the air at 1:05, with a first pitch scheduled for 1:10 pm. Today's game and all weekday day games will air on ESPN Radio 1700. Hope you'll join us.
Andy
Today's Padres lineup...
CF - Cameron Maybin
RF - Mark Kotsay
1B - Yonder Alonso
LF - Carlos Quentin
3B - James Darnell
C - John Baker
SS - Jason Bartlett
2B - Andy Parrino
SP - Cory Luebke
Luebke is coming off a great outing at Goodyear against the Reds. Look for him to go 3 innings today. Also slated for 3 innings is Jeff Suppan. The veteran pitcher looked good in his first Padres start. He was over shadowed by Yu-Mania that day.
Colorado Rockies
The Rockies will throw Jeremy Guthrie today. He was acquired in the off season from Baltimore for Jason Hammel and Matt Lindstrom. Guthrie was 9-17 last year.
Colorado finished just ahead of the Padres in the NL West last season, with a record of 73-89, 21 games out of first place.
The Padres and Rockies season series wound up even at 9-9. The oddity, the Padres were only 3-6 at Petco, but 6-3 at Coors Field last year.
News/Notes:
The Padres reassigned 5 players to minor league camp today. Pitchers Cory Burns, and Jorge Reyes, catchers Ali Solis and Eddy Rodriguez, and infielder Cory Spangenberg. Buddy Black said that some of these guys could pop up still in "A" games, depending on need. Black was very complimentary of Spangenberg, who they timed at 3.95 out of the batters box to first base in a game last week (by the way that's fast). Spangenberg got valuable coaching from Glenn Hoffman and, good experience in the big league camp.
Some minor injury news, Kyle Blanks has a sore leg and will need a couple of days off. Everth Cabrera is battling a minor shoulder injury and needs a couple of days as well.
Today's Broadcast...
Bob Scanlan will join me today from Scottsdale, for Padres and Rockies. We go on the air at 1:05, with a first pitch scheduled for 1:10 pm. Today's game and all weekday day games will air on ESPN Radio 1700. Hope you'll join us.
Andy
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Padres and Diamondbacks 3/11/2012
Greetings from Peoria again, as we are getting ready for a Cactus League game featuring division rivals, with the Padres hosting the Diamondbacks. Arizona was the surprise of the division a year ago, winning 94 games to take the crown by 8 games over the Giants. Kirk Gibson won manager of the year honors in the National League. The Padres were 7-11 against the Diamondbacks last season, winning 5 of the 9 games at Petco, but dropping 7 of the 9 at Chase Field.
Here's the Padres lineup today:
CF - Cameron Maybin
2B - Orlando Hudson
3B - Chase Headley
LF - Carlos Quentin
1B - Yonder Alonso
C - Nick Hundley
RF - Will Venable
SS - Andy Parrino
P - Tim Stauffer
Yes, this is the first time the Padres pitchers are in the batting order. Buddy Black hinted that Stauffer who is slated to go 3 innings, may not bat depending on the situation. If a bunt is in order you'll probably see Stauffer, if not likely a pinch hitter to simulate the scenario for the regular season.
Chase Headley as you see is in the lineup for the first time. His back issue is "behind him" if you'll pardon the pun. Buddy doesn't see this as a long term issue for Chase, just one of those things.
Black had a funny moment with us during our media session today. He was asked about the young guys that have been playing late in games. Guys like Rymer Liriano, Jonathan Galvez (who Black may start calling Johnny G), Edinson Rincon and Jaff Decker to name a few. He called them the "B-Bombers". After looking at their impressive batting averages Buddy deadpanned "These guys aren't playing enough". Good stuff from a great guy to cover.
One other note, the Padres will break out the new home whites for the game today...
Photo courtesy of Warren Miller
Here's the Padres lineup today:
CF - Cameron Maybin
2B - Orlando Hudson
3B - Chase Headley
LF - Carlos Quentin
1B - Yonder Alonso
C - Nick Hundley
RF - Will Venable
SS - Andy Parrino
P - Tim Stauffer
Yes, this is the first time the Padres pitchers are in the batting order. Buddy Black hinted that Stauffer who is slated to go 3 innings, may not bat depending on the situation. If a bunt is in order you'll probably see Stauffer, if not likely a pinch hitter to simulate the scenario for the regular season.
Chase Headley as you see is in the lineup for the first time. His back issue is "behind him" if you'll pardon the pun. Buddy doesn't see this as a long term issue for Chase, just one of those things.
Black had a funny moment with us during our media session today. He was asked about the young guys that have been playing late in games. Guys like Rymer Liriano, Jonathan Galvez (who Black may start calling Johnny G), Edinson Rincon and Jaff Decker to name a few. He called them the "B-Bombers". After looking at their impressive batting averages Buddy deadpanned "These guys aren't playing enough". Good stuff from a great guy to cover.
One other note, the Padres will break out the new home whites for the game today...
Photo courtesy of Warren Miller
I like the look, the piping adds a nice classic touch and you gotta love the swinging friar on the arm patch. So picture these uni's in your head as you join Jerry Coleman, Bob Scanlan and me for the call of the Padres and Diamondbacks today. 1pm on XX 1090.
Andy