MLB spring training is kicking into high gear and here are some news and notes that we’re hearing from the camps of the New York Mets, San Diego Padres, and Colorado Rockies.
New York Mets news: Starling Marte’s health pointing in right direction
Mets manager Buck Showalter told reporters in Florida that Marte appears to be on track to be ready for Opening Day after undergoing core muscle surgery in November.
“So far, so good. We haven’t had anything come to our attention that doesn’t make us think he won’t start the season,” Showalter said in a very positive update.
Marte is currently at the top of New York’s depth chart in right field, with Tommy Pham likely serving as the backup should the 34-year-old Marte suffer any setbacks.
Also, it sounds like New York closer Edwin Díaz is already making plans for the upcoming season.
"I will keep throwing my two pitches, my fastball, my slider, and keep striking out everybody."
— SNY (@SNYtv) February 14, 2023
- Edwin Díaz pic.twitter.com/JiiUlWimie
MLB spring training news: Randal Grichuk could miss start of season for Colorado Rockies
In Arizona, however, the news was not as good for Rockies outfielder Randal Grichuk, who will likely miss the start of the season after undergoing surgery for a bilateral sports hernia last week. Grichuk told MLB.com’s Thomas Harding that he could return in six weeks if all goes well with his rehab.
Grichuk’s absence brings some additional intrigue to the outfield for the Rockies this spring, with Kris Bryant slated to start in left and Yonathan Daza holding down center to begin the season. Right field, however, was where Grichuk was expected to contribute the most, with Charlie Blackmon expected to serve as the team’s primary designated hitter. The 36-year-old Blackmon may see some additional time in right to open the campaign, plus Nolan Jones, acquired from the Cleveland Guardians in the offseason, and Michael Toglia could also see time in right as well.
San Diego Padres news: Juan Soto focusing on one position in 2023?
It sounds as if Soto will be patrolling left field for the Padres this season, with manager Bob Melvin telling reporters on Tuesday that the 24-year-old Soto would be open to playing any position, but focusing on one position will help his “epic” preparations heading into the season.
Bob Melvin was asked if he's had conversations with Juan Soto about which position he'll play this season: pic.twitter.com/4Jb2H7gdFJ
— 97.3 The Fan (@973TheFanSD) February 14, 2023