Young Baseball Stars Seem Ready To Shine
Workouts started this weekend and the first exhibition games are less than two weeks away. With so many players getting ready and so little time to watch them all, here are 10 things to look for at spring training:
Top prospects
What better time to predict the next stars of the future than right now? Oakland outfielder Ben Grieve, son of former Texas general manager Tom Grieve, batted .350 with 136 RBIs in the minors last year, then hit three doubles and drove in five runs in his major league debut. Arizona first baseman Travis Lee got $10 million to sign, and showed a sweet swing and a neat glove last year in his first pro season. First baseman-third baseman Paul Konerko’s power could make him the Dodgers’ next rookie of the year, provided he gets to play. Pitcher Carl Pavano was the player Montreal wanted from Boston for Pedro Martinez; he throws a 93-94 mph fastball, if his elbow and shoulder are OK.
Injury rehabs
All-Star catcher Todd Hundley was expected to miss the whole year for the Mets after elbow surgery, but he hopes to return sooner. John Smoltz will start the season on the disabled list for the Braves, though he should be back by late April. N.L. MVP Larry Walker is recovering from elbow shoulder and will take it slow in Colorado’s camp. Carlos Delgado will be out at least two months because of an injured shoulder, which prompted Toronto to sign Jose Canseco.
Job search
Mark Lemke and Shawon Dunston were the two most prominent players still without employment as workouts started. Former Cy Young winner Jack McDowell is trying to make a comeback from elbow trouble and attracted mild interest after a recent workout. Orlando “El Duque” Hernandez, the older brother of World Series MVP Livan Hernandez, is available, and Florida is feeling pressure to sign him for a family reunion.
Eye on expansion
The Arizona Diamondbacks (N.L. West) and Tampa Bay Devil Rays (A.L. East) both stocked up on their share of big-name talent. But will Matt Williams, Andy Benes, Devon White, Jay Bell and Willie Blair make manager Buck Showalter’s team a desert dream? And will Fred McGriff, Roberto Hernandez, Wilson Alvarez and Wade Boggs pay off in Florida?
Changes brewing
Milwaukee becomes the first team this century to switch leagues when it joins the National League. Manager Phil Garner’s club already bunts and steals, so that should be no problem. Now, Brewers pitchers must hit and DH Dave Nilsson must grab his glove.
Hello, Hideki
After reports of a 100 mph fastball helped earn him a $12.8 million, four-year contract, Hideki Irabu (5-4, 7.09 ERA) was a rookie bust. The Yankees say their Japanese star just needs a full spring training to get ready - now’s his chance.
Randy rumblings
Randy Johnson became Seattle’s first 20-game winner last season, but trade rumors have surrounded the Big Unit all winter. Even the Mariners must wonder whether their ace will be distracted by the talk.
Belle ringing
No doubt, the White Sox expected a bit more from Albert Belle (.274, 30 HRs, 116 RBIs) on and off the field after signing him for $55 million over five years. His days of 50-homer potential may be behind him.
Save me
Randy Myers left for Toronto, and that leaves Baltimore with a big hole in its bullpen. New O’s manager Ray Miller hopes inconsistent Armando Benitez can close, mostly so Arthur Rhodes can stay in a setup role. Todd Worrell’s retirement leaves Darren Dreifort as the No. 1 closer for the Dodgers.
Leading the way
The Braves let Kenny Lofton go and never got too serious in trade talks for Chuck Knoblauch. Atlanta needs a leadoff hitter and will try Andruw Jones. A disappointment last year in a limited role, Jones has potential to be a Bobby Bonds-style, 30-30 guy at the top of the lineup.