Shildt says guys are “getting after it”.
Team handled last two days well Not perfect system. No complaining. Only frustration was not getting on field.
Cecli’s different arm slot creates more movement, deception to LH batters. Hitting locations. But also looked better than before in last March outing.
Martinez threw a pen today. Finding out conditioning as they go. Looks like he is strong. Martinez was part of Friday group so just cleared today. Will be off tomorrow. Throw again Thursday or Friday.
Told Martinez before they want consistent habit with weights, training, recovery to get stamina back up. Displayed that in March. Not his issue in delay. More than earned opportunity to start based on what he showed in spring. Now it is the calendar to get ready.
First intrasquad delayed to Thursday, 4-5 innings. Live BP again tomorrow. Will stay fluid as to whether yesterday will be the day off or whether they take the 13th off as planned. Will depend on pitchers and rain potential.
Not committed to good runner in ninth spot in order. Not the driving force. Many factors. Wants all hitters to run well, 1 through 9.
On Mikolas: Good to see him out there. Had feel for secondaries. DeJong put one on him. Not concerned about location now. See how he recovers tomorrow. Target most guys around 100 pitches to open season, but some (like Mikolas) may be behind that.
The three extra pitchers (Thompson, Kaminsky, Elledge) are there both to cover for guys not ready and to get them acclimated.