The Cubs completed their first full squad workout of the spring on Sunday afternoon at Fitch Park. Tom Ricketts, Theo Epstein and Dale Sveum addressed the 62 players in big league camp before the on-field drills and live batting practice.
Matt Garza faced live hitters for the first time since last July but had to cut his scheduled 40-pitch session in half. Garza faced three batters and was reportedly throwing the ball well but had to stop after his 20th pitch. After a conversation with Dale Sveum and Chris Bosio, Garza left the field with athletic trainer P.J. Mainville holding his left side.
According to multiple reports, Garza was diagnosed with a mild lat strain and will be evaluated again on Monday. Garza met with the doctors and said afterwards that he was fine and felt what he thought was a water cramp. Garza said his elbow feels great and he is not going to push it but admitted he was disappointed at having to cut his throwing session short.
Spring Training News Bites
Tom Ricketts offered his support of Theo Epstein and the job that the baseball operations staff is doing. Ricketts explained that Epstein’s vision of the team’s future is right on target with the ownership’s plans.
Before cutting his session short, Matt Garza faced Javier Baez, Steve Clevenger and Christian Villanueva in the live BP session … the 20th pitch of the scheduled 40 was to Jorge Soler.
Thursday and Friday’s five-inning Intrasquad games will begin around 1:00pm Arizona time.
Dale Sveum told the media that the depth of the pitching in camp is night and day from last year.
According to multiple reports, the players surprised Dale Sveum during his meeting with the team. The players removed their jackets to reveal bright orange hunting gear and gave their skipper a t-shirt with a target on the back. Matt Garza denied involvement but has been fingered as the ringleader of the prank according to the Tribune.
Crane Kenney declined to comment on the botched negotiations with Bob Brenly.