I can’t help but pass along this picture from reader Jim who had the good fortune to visit Spring Training.
What would get this collection of players huddled around a single field with such intent. Turns out it was Shelby Miller throwing BP.
That’s pretty cool. You can also make out a contingent of minor leaguers on the right: Kevin Thomas, Scott McGregor & Lance Lynn.
Some more photos after the jump.
Zach Cox looking a bit trimmer than I anticipated. His first year of pro ball is perhaps more important for Cox than any other first round Cardinal pick in recent memory. Scouting opinions still vary a lot on Cox and 2011 is going to be the first impression that sticks with some team’s scouts as Cox consistently hits with wood against better competition.
I still like the skillset that Robert Stock (left) brings to catcher but the bat has to mature this year. If it doesn’t, a move to the mound would seem iminent. Steve Hill (right) doesn’t seem to have a place in St Louis with guys like Allen Craig sticking around as a bat bench and utility guy. I don’t see a major league team trying out Hill at catcher.
Newly acquired Maikel Cleto is warming up on the left side of the mound. We’ll get some fancy reports about his velocity and “live arm” at some point this year but I’m more interested if the Cardinals can refine his control. Joe Kelly (right) remains my pet starting prospect. I think he remains hugely underrated based on his 2010 performance and repertoire.
(Thanks again to Jim and the other silent readers out there. You’re welcome to e-mail me at any time with questions, comments or awesome pictures.)
Original Story:
http://www.futureredbirds.net/2011/03...
