Twins pitchers and catchers officially report Tuesday here in Fort Myers, Fla., but it's not as official as you think.
A player technically can be in the city and report. There's no time when everyone has to be at the ballpark. That happens Wednesday, when manager Paul Molitor speaks to his team and sends them out for the first workout of spring training.
A few minor notes:
Trevor May (above) threw in the bullpen today. He's feeling great after recovering from Tommy John surgery. And he's looking forward to having a normal spring training.
Zach Duke was unpacking his gear while I was in the clubhouse and looks headed out to play some catch.
The Twins should announce another minor league deal today with an invite to spring training. Not surprising, given how the free agent process has dragged out this offseason.
Mitch Garver is in fantastic shape. He's built like a fireplug.
Fernando Romero? Er, ah....he's a little thick this spring.
Fans are still wondering if the Twins will take a look at Jake Arrieta. I was told Saturday that it was unlikely. The team could always change its mind, but there has been no Arrieta rumblings this offseason at all, so I think there's little interest, if any, in him.
Chatted with Lewis Thorpe yesterday. The Aussie lefty has battled his own injury issues in recent years but feels he's back on track. Now, it's a matter of him facing hitters and building innings. He threw 83 innings last year - mostly at Class A Fort Myers - but said he threw another 25-30 during instructional league. So he could probably pitch around 130 innings this year, if he stays healthy. Thorpe is worth keeping an eye on. He's got a good arm, averaging 10.6 strikeouts per nine innings in his minor league career. And he's given up just 14 homers in 198.2 innings.
I'll try not to rub in the weather too much. But, good grief, is been in the 80s every day since I've arrived. That's unseasonably warm for this time of year. It's 74 as I write this. Get down here. It's worth it.
Trevor May photo by Mark Vancleave
