Photo by Nick Camino / Newsradio WTAM 1100
GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- While pitchers and catchers for the Cleveland Indians have already begun their official spring training workouts, plenty of position players have arrived to camp and will take part in the club's first official full squad workout Saturday morning at the player development complex.
Terry Francona said on Thursday that he does not anticipate any delays in position players arriving to camp. Once players undergo physicals Friday at the team's training complex, the Tribe will hold their first official full squad workout on Saturday.
During Francona's daily media gathering on Thursday he talked about the team having two good catchers, but hinted that Yan Gomes will likely be the primary guy behind the plate, while Roberto Perez will back him up at the spot. Francona is still anticipating Perez getting plenty of playing time.
Francona was asked his thoughts on the World Baseball Classic and while the Tribe skipper said it is a "great event" put on by Major League Baseball, he questioned whether there is ever a good time to hold such an event and admitted he will be thrilled once his players come back from the WBC Tournament. Francona mentioned his concern of injury stems from when Vinnie Pestano pitched for Team USA in the WBC and was never really the same pitcher after that.
The first spring training game is slated for Feb. 25 at Goodyear Ballpark against the Cincinnati Reds. Notable players heading out for the WBC Tourament include Francisco Lindor, Andrew Miller, Perez and newly signed utility man Chris Colabello.
- Nick Camino