First pitch: Emptying out the spring training notebook on Cubs, Dodgers and more
By Kevin Henry
Los Angeles Dodgers spring training: Ryan Pepiot offseason work paying off
In his second start of the spring on Saturday against Kansas City, Pepiot struck out four in two innings and scattered three hits while allowing one run. Manager Dave Roberts commended the 25-year-old right-hander for the work he put into his delivery in the offseason and how it is playing a role in his spring success.
“He made a point to clean up his delivery this winter and for him to see some fruits from that early on, I think it’s only going to build confidence for him,” Roberts said.
Pepiot appeared in nine games for the Dodgers last season, starting seven of them. His two relief appearances came in long relief in September, and that could be how he factors into L.A.’s pitching this season with the rotation seemingly set and Pepiot on the outside looking in. In the latest Opening Day roster projection for the Dodgers, Pepiot is not listed, meaning he could start the season in Triple-A Oklahoma City.
Chicago Cubs spring training: David Ross shrugs off worry over WBC
Like many MLB managers, Ross is seeing some of his players leave camp in order to represent their respective countries at the World Baseball Classic. Among the Cubs heading to WBC play is starting pitcher Marcus Stroman, who will pitch for Puerto Rico after pitching for Team USA in the 2017 WBC.
While Stroman (who could be Chicago’s Opening Day starter) is throwing in the WBC, Ross says he won’t worry about what could happen to his pitcher outside of Cubs camp.
“If I worry about guys getting hurt, I’m just going to keep making myself miserable,” Ross said. “I’m trying not to do that. I’m trying to enjoy my life.
“With something like that (WBC), I try to put my player hat on and think if I had a chance to go and play for my country, what a great honor that is. He (Stroman) is going to go and play some of the highest competition in the world, so that’s a good thing.”