GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- On Monday things were finally back to normal for the Cleveland Indians at spring training. Workouts, sunshine and most importantly, baseball.
Over the weekend, rain storms from California had made it to the Phoenix-area drenching the Tribe's training facility forcing most baseball activities indoors. But on Monday, the Indians took part in a normal workout which featured live bullpen sessions most notably with Andrew Miller, batting practice, infield practice and pitcher's fielding practice.
Repetitive, but necessary as the defending American League Champions continue their preparations for a highly anticipated 2017 MLB season.
The Indians will get their first game action Saturday afternoon at Goodyear Ballpark when they host the Cincinnati Reds in the Cactus League Exhibition opener. First pitch is set for 3:05 pm ET and can be heard on Newsradio WTAM 1100.
The 2017 season opens on Monday, April 3 in Arlington for a three-game series with the Texas Rangers. On Sunday Tribe skipper Terry Francona admitted his Opening Day starter was not etched in stone yet citing Corey Kluber's heavy workload into the World Series last season plus the fact that they are easing him in to spring camp this year.
Also, the World Baseball Classic will be held March 6 - March 22, Indians players Andrew Miller (United States), Francisco Lindor (Puerto Rico), Carlos Santana (Dominican Republic) and Roberto Perez (Puerto Rico) will all me taking part in the global tournament.
Many Tribe fans have voiced their concerns over Miller's decision to represent Team USA in the WBC. On Monday afternoon, Miller had a message to calm some of those nerves: "The most important thing for me is to help the Indians win games this year. That's who is signing my paychecks. That's where my loyalty lies. But at the same time, I think it's a great opportunity and I think there's actually a chance that it's something I can get better from."
The Indians will workout Tuesday at the player development complex beginning around 9:30 am.
- Nick Camino