Friar Watch

It’s that time again, as pitchers and catchers report to spring training. It’s also time for me to start working the rust out and start posting again. I’m happy to report I’ve picked up a new computer and I’m the best shape of my life. Speaking of, let’s take a look at how the Padres are doing as they report in to Peoria:

Courtesy of the UT:

Trevor Hoffman: “I’ve heard Trevor is in the best shape he’s ever been in, and that the ball is coming out of his hand real good right now,” Balsley said.

Awesome! Trevor is known for working out really hard so it sounds like he turned it up to 11 this year.

Josh Bard: Bard had surgery to repair a tendon in his wrist; this is the first I’ve heard of it but I wasn’t really paying attention back in November. “Bard said his wrist is fine”

Paul McAnulty: P-Mac lost 22 pounds after working out 4 times a day and drinking blue-green algae. “I’m in the best shape of my life,” McAnulty said.

I bet he’s one of those guys who could lose 50 pounds and still look chunky. Everybody loves this guy; it’s good to hear that he’s really going after a starting job. I’d love to see him tear it up in spring and force the team to give him the LF job or trade him to someone that can use him.

Tony Clark: Big T made the 6 minute drive from his home but hasn’t started working out yet. No word on his condition.

Wil Ledezma: Kind of a forgotten man in the pitching mix but he’s always had a good arm. Balsley is tinkering with his rotation, trying to get more consistency.

I love the optimism that comes with spring training. I’ll try to provide frequent updates on how the Padres players are feeling as we go along.