Giants Spring Training Notes: Dodgers Had Interest In Torres, WBC Update, etc.
With the first day of spring training in the books, I’ll get you caught up with some of rumblings out of Scottsdale. Granted, there weren’t many notable headlines, but manager Bruce Bochy did reveal a few tidbits during his first press conference of spring training.
Giants’ Opening Day Starter Already Penciled In
I think you all could guess this one, but Bruce Bochy didn’t say anything to the media. Instead, he will tell the anonymous pitcher first, before publicly announcing it. A good guess would be Matt Cain, and that seems to be the obvious prediction amongst pundits. Until Bochy confirms that it’s Cain, however, it’s still considered speculation.
Aug 9, 2012; Flushing, NY,USA; New York Mets center fielder Andres Torres (56) triples to deep right allowing a runner to score eighth inning against the Miami Marlins at Citi Field. Mets won 6-1. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports
Los Angeles Dodgers Had Interest In Andres Torres
The Dodgers had interest in a lot of people this offseason, and Torres just happened to be one of their targets, presumably for outfield depth. Don’t be mistaken, though, as the Dodgers’ outfield triumvirate is set, but Carl Crawford’s surgically repaired arm could leave some lingering effects. According to Ken Gurnick of MLB.COM, the former Red Sox is confident that he’ll be ready for Opening Day. Still, there’s always the possibility that he’s not ready, and Los Angeles doesn’t have a “true” outfielder that can replace him. That’s where Torres would’ve helped.
Torres Extremely Happy to Be Back In San Francisco
Torres did attract many teams during the offseason, but he told his agent that he ultimately wanted to return to the Giants, saying that his “heart is in San Francisco.” Torres also noted that he watched all of San Francisco’s postseason games on TV, saying “it was torture,” referring to the theme of the Giants’ 2010 World Series team, which Torres was a crucial part of.
Gary Brown to Focus On All Three Outfield Positions
In the minds of some pundits, Gary Brown is still the Giants’ top prospect over Kyle Crick. With Angel Pagan locked up for the next four years, however, Brown may have a tough time finding a spot, or least at his natural position— center field. With that caveat in mind, the Giants will work Brown in at left field, center field and right field during these next six weeks, according to Henry Schulman.
Brandon Belt to Play Some Left Field
Occasionally, Buster Posey will need a rest. However, the Giants need his bat, and sticking him in first base is the alternative route to take when he needs a day off. Meaning, Belt will have to shift over to left field infrequently. He played four games in left field last year.
WBC Update
If the Giants don’t stop any of their players from playing the World Baseball Classic, then they will send 10—possibly 11– players to various teams, which is a lot.
The main concern revolves around the Giants’ pitchers, specifically Sergio Romo. Romo’s already a fragile figure with his knees and arm issues, and having him pitch a few extra games might not be a wise idea. It’s not just Romo, though, as all of the Giants pitchers heading to the WBC are vulnerable to fatigue, especially after a shorter offseason.