us Cac tu e
L e ag PREVIEW 2016
DESERT SPOTLIGHT MORE INSIDE WHAT TO WATCH Breaking down top 5 sights to see this year. Page 2 WHEN TO WATCH A day-by-day schedule of Cactus League action. Page 19 HOW TO WATCH A guide of how to get around in the Valley. Page 19
MIKE TROUT MI
ANTHONY AN Y RIZZO RIZZ
PAGE 2 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016
C A C T U S L E A G U E 2 016 | T O P 5 S I G H T S
Top 5 sights to see in the Cactus League ZACH BUCHANAN AZCENTRAL SPORTS
There are so many things to see during the Cactus League season, and only so much time. Here’s a handy list of the best sights to catch as you traipse across the Valley of the Sun in search of the best spring training experience. Th e Cu bs ’ bo p p er s Batting practice may be just as fan as games for those catching some Cubs action this spring. Chicago has a vaunted stable of big-swingers in the likes of Anthony Rizzo, Kyle Schwarber, Kris Bryant and Jorge Soler. Those four combined to hit 83 home runs in 2015. Bryant hit the longest home run of the 2015 season, according to Statcast data, traveling a whopping 495 feet. He also had the 11th-longest dinger of the year, a 477-footer. Schwarber had two of the three longest bombs of the postseason, and Soler had the hardest-hit ball of all Cubs, smacking a ball that hit 116 mph off the bat. Rizzo’s team-best 31 homers pretty much speak for themselves. Fi r s t bas em en gal o r e The Grapefruit League has a nice three-headed first base monster with Chris Davis, Miguel Cabrera and Freddie Freeman, but it’s impossible to match what the Cactus League has to offer. Along with Rizzo, fans can get a glimpse of some of the best at the position in the game. There’s two-time MVP runner-up Paul Goldschmidt of the Arizona Diamondbacks, sweet-swinging lefty Adrian Gonzalez of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Cincinnati Reds feature on-base robot Joey Votto, and the White Sox have Cuban stud Jose Abreu. Even the second tier of guys at the position is impressive. The Los Angeles Angels’ Albert Pujols and the Texas Rangers’ Prince Fielder may not be what they once were, but they’re still dangerous. Brandon Belt and Eric Hosmer – of the San Francisco Giants and Kansas City Royals, respectively – are up-and-comers, and the Seattle Mariners have an underrated guy in Adam Lind. Th e Cy Yo u n g gu y s The depth chart isn’t quite as deep at starting pitcher, but it’s hard to argue with the three guys at the top. The Dodgers’ Clayton Kershaw has held the title for the last couple years, but more
ROB SCHUMACHER/THE REPUBLIC
Baseballs used by the 15 Cactus League teams this spring will will carry the 2016 AZ logo.
CHRIS HUMPHREYS/USA TODAY SPORTS
Colorado Rockies third baseman Nolan Arenado is 24 and one of the game’s best players, although he hasn’t received that much attention nationally.
recently declared his former teammate, new Diamondback ace Zack Greinke, is most deserving of the moniker. Meanwhile, the guy who actually won the Cy Young last year, the Cubs’ Jake Arrieta, can make a strong claim of his own if he keeps performing the way he has. Spring training isn’t the time to see these guys pitch a one-hit shutout, but it’s a great time to watch them make opposing batters look foolish. Wel co m e t o Ar i z o n a Simmons won’t be the only marquee player getting his first taste of Cactus League action. For the first time, natives and visitors of the Valley can catch left-hander Cole Hamels and outfielder Jason Heyward doing their thing. The 32-year-old Hamels spent his entire career with the Philadelphia Phillies before being traded at the deadline to the Rangers, whom he helped to an AL West title. He’ll again sit atop the Texas rotation – at least until Yu Darvish returns from elbow surgery early in the season. The veteran can still pitch, and sports a career 3.31 ERA. Heyward cashed in this offseason with an eight-year, $184 million deal from the Chicago Cubs after spending five years with the Atlanta Braves and last season with the St. Louis Cardinals. He does many things well, but it’ll be the most fun to watch his wizardry in the outfield. Mr . Un der r at ed Because the Colorado Rockies are perennially bad, their star players don’t get enough love. The attention given to Carlos Gonzalez and – before he was traded – Troy Tulowitzki always focused on when and if they’d be leaving town for greener pastures. But every baseball fan deserves a chance to watch Nolan Arenado play the hot corner in person. The 24-year-old is simply one of the game’s best players. Yes, he plays in the offense-inflated Coors Field, but even adjusted for ballpark factors he a strong weighted-OPS the last two years. The 2015 season was his best yet – he earned his third Gold Glove in as many years, earned his first All-Star and Silver Slugger selections and finished eighth in NL MVP voting. Go watch him play and shower him with your cheers.
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PAGE 4 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016
C A C T U S L E A G U E 2 016 | D I A M O N D B A C K S
Ariz ona Diamondbacks’ hopes high after hectic w inter Club expected to contend for NL West championship NICK PIECORO AZCENTRAL SPORTS
Perhaps no team in baseball made more bold moves this offseason than the Diamondbacks, who improved their rotation with Zack Greinke and Shelby Miller; added depth to their bullpen with Tyler Clippard; and picked up another capable infielder, Jean Segura. Though they won just 79 games last season and haven’t had a winning year since 2011, expectations are high that the Diamondbacks will contend with the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Francisco Giants in the National League West. On paper, it seems possible. They’re bringing back most of the same position players who finished with the secondmost runs scored in the National League and rated as one of the better defensive units in baseball. And they’ve made huge upgrades to their porous pitching staff, particularly in a rotation that rated among the bottom third of all major league teams last year. Do n ’t m i s s : The Diamondbacks have a few options here, including a couple of tempting newcomers, but Paul Goldschmidt is still the best and most important player on this team. His greatness is almost taken for granted – that’s what happens when you almost never slump – but this is a guy who has finished second in MVP voting two of the past three years. (He might have finished in the top two the other year had he not suffered a broken hand.) Po s i t i o n bat t l e: The middle infield is filled with intrigue, with Nick Ahmed, Jean Segura and Chris Owings seemingly battling it out for at-bats at shortstop and second base. Ahmed clearly is the best defender of the bunch, but both Owings and Segura have shown flashes of being highly productive hitters relative to their position. This could be one of those position battles that doesn’t sort itself out until the regular season, when certain players force their way into the lineup because of their production. On t h e r i s e: The Diamondbacks have dealt away several of their top prospects, but one of the few remaining is right-hander Braden Shipley. Their
ROB SCHUMACHER/THE REPUBLIC
Diamondbacks pitcher Zack Greinke fields a ground ball at Salt River Fields. Greinke was the Diamondbacks’ biggest offseason acquisition. Man ager : Chip Hale. Las t s eas o n : 79-83. Bi g ch an ges : Acquired starters Zack Greinke (free agent) and Shelby Miller (trade with Braves), reliever Tyler Clippard (free agent) and infielder Jean Segura (trade with Brewers). Lost starting pitchers Chase Anderson (trade with Brewers), Jeremy Hellickson (trade with Phillies), Jhoulys Chacin (free agent), reliever David Hernandez (free agent), infielder Aaron Hill (trade with Brewers), outfielder Ender Inciarte (trade with Braves) and catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia (free agent).
first-round pick from 2013, he had some ups and downs last season in Double-A Mobile, but some scouts still see him as a solid mid-rotation starter. He probably won’t get a crack at the Opening Day rotation, but depending on how things shake out he could reach the majors at some point this season.
DAVID KADLUBOWSKI/THE REPUBLIC
First baseman Paul Goldschmidt has finished second in MVP voting two of the last three years.
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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016 PAGE 5
C A C T U S L E A G U E 2 016 | R O C K I E S | S A LT R I V E R F I E L D S
Tribal influence at Salt Riv er Fields This 13,000-seat stadium opened in 2011. There are 13 fields (including one main stadium) split between the Ariz ona Diamondbacks and the Colorado Rockies. Det ai l s : 7555 N. Pima Road, Salt River Reservation. 480-270-5000, saltriverfields.com.
What to know when you visit
CHRIS HUMPHREYS/USA TODAY SPORTS
Right fielder Carlos Gonz alez hits one of his 40 home runs in 2015. Gonz alez is probably the Rockies’ most dynamic offensive player.
Rockies still looking for their footing in NL West NICK PIECORO
Man ager : Walt Weiss.
AZCENTRAL SPORTS
Las t s eas o n : 68-94.
With a fifth straight losing season, the Colorado Rockies last year solidified their place as baseball’s most woebegone franchise, a club viewed the way the Pittsburgh Pirates and Kansas City Royals were a decade ago. So, yeah, things can change – and perhaps the Rockies are slowly starting their transformation – but it would be a shock if they finished anywhere close to contention this season. Still, they didn’t do much in the way of major tear-down moves this winter; the biggest deal they’ve made in the past year happened prior to the trade deadline last July, when they shipped face-of-thefranchise shortstop Troy Tulowitzki to the Toronto Blue Jays in exchange for shortstop Jose Reyes and three young pitchers. Do n ’t m i s s : Outfielder Carlos Gonzalez is probably the Rockies’ most dynamic hitter, but their best all-around player last year undoubtedly was third baseman Nolan Arenado. Arenado had the best offensive season of his career last year at age 24, slamming 42 homers and driving in 130 runs. But even without the offense, he’s worth the price of admission for his defense; Arenado has won a Gold Glove in each of his three big-league seasons.
Bi g ch an ges : Acquired relievers Jake McGee (trade with Rays), Jason Motte (free agent) and Chad Qualls (free agent) and infielder Mark Reynolds (free agent). Lost reliever John Axford (free agent), starting pitcher Kyle Kendrick, catcher/first baseman Wilin Rosario (designated for assignment), first baseman Justin Morneau (free agent) and outfielder Corey Dickerson (trade with Rays).
Po s i t i o n bat t l e: Lefty Jorge De La Rosa and right-handers Chad Bettis and Jon Gray look like locks for spots, but the final two jobs could come down to a group including Tyler Chatwood, Jordan Lyles, Eddie Butler, Chris Rusin and David Hale. On t h e r i s e: Of all the players the Rockies landed in the Tulowitzki deal, right-hander Jeff Hoffman was probably the most highly coveted. Prior to going down with Tommy John surgery during his junior year in college, Hoffman had a chance to be one of the top five players in the draft. Instead, he slipped to ninth, where the Blue Jays grabbed him before flipping him in July as they loaded up for a playoff run.
In s i der t i p s : Salt River Fields was the first Major League Baseball property built on an Indian reservation. Tribal influences incorporated throughout the park gives information about the teams, and the history of the Pima and Maricopa tribes. Restroom signs are in Maricopa, Pima and English. Fo o d an d dr i n k : Cousins Maine Lobster food truck (as seen on "Shark Tank") will be on site. Budweiser Bow Tie, Streets of New York Piz z a, Cold Stone Creamery, Salty Señ orita and Sonoran BBQ also will be on hand. Wh er e t o s i t : There isn' t a bad seat in the house. For the cost-conscious fan, the grass area is pretty expansive, even when it' s crowded. Bring a blanket or towel, as chairs are not permitted. Although the facility was built to maximiz e shade, free sunscreen is provided for fans along the Banana Boat Lawn. The always-busy hospitality levels, such as the Pepsi Patio, provide an amaz ing view of just about every mountain in the Valley, from the McDowells to Four Peaks to Red Mountain. Meet -an d-gr eet s : Autographs are widely available. At each D-backs home game, an autograph session is held in the left-field corner where two players will sign an hour before the first pitch. During batting practice at D-backs and Rockies games, try to squeez e down to the front-row stadium seats near the bullpens. The Rockies have added an autograph session at the right field corner an hour before first pitch. Fam i l y t i m e: Salt River Fields is a family-friendly facility. With a Cold Stone Creamery Kids Fun Field near the first-base concourse, kids can play Wiffle ball with stadium personnel. Kids can enjoy running the bases after every Sunday home game.
Eating and drinking nearby Am er i ca' s Taco Sh o p : For a quick bite within walking distance, stop by this Ariz ona-based, fast-casual franchise, which
MARK J. REBILAS/USA TODAY SPORTS
The Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies share Salt River Fields, which is built on an Indian reservation. serves Mexican favorites like tacos, burritos, quesadillas and tortas. Look for Taco Tuesday deals ($2 for every taco) and other daily specials. Det ai l s : 9261 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale. 480-278-7085, americastacoshop.com. Ocean Tr ai l : Enjoy a taste of New Orleans at Talking Stick Resort' s seafood spot, featuring crawfish etouffee, Louisiana gumbo and seafood plates such as the shareable platter of shrimp, crab, oysters, mussels and clams. The resort also features a number of other casual and upscale dining options, and after the game you can hit the casino floor. Det ai l s : Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Salt River Reservation. 480-850-7777, talkingstickresort.com. Bar r o ' s Pi z z a: At Scottsdale Pavilions, this piz z a place is within walking distance of the ballpark. Create your own piz z a, or choose a specialty such as the Mega Meat, Kona (chicken, teriyaki sauce, pineapple) and Spicy Southwestern (chicken, spicy barbecue sauce). Barro' s, with locations across the Valley, also is known for its chicken wings. Det ai l s : 8940 E. Indian Bend, Scottsdale. 480-302-6555, barrospiz z a.com. To p go l f Sco t t s dal e: Want to keep the fun going after the baseball game? Stop by Topgolf, a fun attraction that blends a driving range with the game of darts, featuring bays that are rented by the hour. Signature menu items include pickled fried chicken sandwich, Mac Daddy burger and chicken and waffles sliders. Brunch is served until 2 p.m. on weekends. Det ai l s : 9500 E. Talking Stick Way, Salt River Reservation. 480-240-2402, topgolf.com. An dr eo l i It al i an Gr o cer : Order a special off the whiteboard, and settle in for some killer trattoria-style Italian made with a paucity of perfect ingredients. Det ai l s : 8880 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale. 480-614-1980, andreoli-grocer.com.
PAGE 6 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016
C A C T U S L E A G U E 2 016 | G I A N T S
Giants raise stakes w ith bolstered staff San Francisco returns to foundation of its dy nasty NICK PIECORO AZCENTRAL SPORTS
Since the San Francisco Giants began winning World Series titles every other year in 2010, they were a team built largely on the foundation of a dominant starting rotation. The formula has gradually shifted over the years, but the Giants took steps this offseason to return to their roots. The Giants are hoping newcomers Johnny Cueto and Jeff Samardzija can team with left-hander Madison Bumgarner to again form a strong top-ofthe-rotation trio reminiscent of the Bumgarner-Tim Lincecum-Matt Cain trio of yesteryear. Add in an offense that rates among the National League’s best and the Giants again look like a title contender. Of course, they’ll be hoping their newcomers are more like the pitchers they’ve been in seasons past. Cueto stumbled in the second half of 2015 after being traded to the Kansas City Royals, though he did finish his year strongly, firing a complete game win over the New York Mets in Game 2 of the World Series. Samardzija, meanwhile, posted a 4.96 ERA for the Chicago White Sox, the highest mark of any of his five full big-league seasons. Do n ’t m i s s : For this category, the Giants have a lot of options, from the not-by-the-book talents of Hunter Pence to the unusual, long-limbed delivery of Madison Bumgarner. But we’ll go with Buster Posey, the Giants’ indispensable catcher. Through six seasons, Posey is on a Hall of Fame track – a career .310 hitter with 102 homers and an .859 OPS. This is elite stuff for a catcher. He’s the kind of player you can tell your grandkids you saw play, even if it’s just for one atbat and three innings behind the plate in the first week of the Cactus League. Po s i t i o n bat t l e: The Giants don’t appear to have any high-profile position battles heading into camp. There might be bench or bullpen spots up for grabs, but nothing too monumental. Perhaps the most interesting developments to track will be health, namely of guys such as second baseman Joe Panik, who fought through back problems
RICK SCUTERI/USA TODAY SPORTS
San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Madison Bumgarner (40) warms up during spring training camp at Scottsdale Stadium. Man ager : Bruce Bochy. Las t s eas o n : 84-78. Bi g ch an ges : Acquired starting pitchers Johnny Cueto (free agent) and Jeff Samardz ija (free agent) and outfielder Denard Span (free agent). Lost starting pitchers Tim Hudson (retirement), Mike Leake (free agent) and Tim Lincecum (free agent) and outfielder Marlon Byrd (free agent).
last season, and right-hander Matt Cain, who is still trying to regain the form that made him one of the better pitchers in baseball early in the decade. On t h e r i s e: A veteran club, the Giants don’t have much room at the moment for prospects, but one worth monitoring is Ray Black.
San Francisco Giants catcher Buster Posey talks to pitcher Jeff Samardz ija during spring training camp at Scottsdale Stadium. RICK SCUTERI/USA TODAY SPORTS
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016 PAGE 7
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Giants draw big crow ds in Scottsdale The home of the San Francisco Giants is in the heart of downtown Scottsdale, which means that games often attract large crowds. If you don’t have a ticket, be sure to check that your desired game isn’t sold out before you start driving; after all, the Giants have won three of the past six World Series titles. Det ai l s : 7408 E. Osborn Road. 480-312-2580, scottsdaleaz .gov/stadium/springtraining.
What to know when you visit In s i der t i p s : The stadium partners with the Scottsdale Charros, a community group that raises funds from banner and program advertising and by selling tickets to the Charro Lodge, an all-inclusive VIP area ($90-$150). Fo o d an d dr i n k : If you’re drinking at the game, be sure to try a 22-ounce bomber from Anchor Steam Brewing Co., a San Francisco original since 1896. Oh, and save room (and a breath mint) for an order of garlic fries. The stadium also sells smoked pulled pork and brisket. (For more ideas, look at the dining
guide below.) Wh er e t o s i t : If you’ve purchased grass seating, snag a blanket and settle in alongside other fans, some of whom will surely be sunbathing. Chairs aren’t allowed. Meet -an d-gr eet s : Autograph seekers need to get to the game early. Hang out along the rail behind the first-base line near the Giants dugout and be ready to chat with the players. Get t i n g t h er e: Don’t be intimidated by Old Town parking, or the limited access at the park. The city’s trolley has a stop at the stadium’s Gate E, allowing you to park pretty much anywhere along the route and hitch a ride to and from the game.
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C A C T U S L E A G U E 2 016 | D O D G E R S | W H I T E S O X
White Sox improv e, but club fights issues in play off chase SCOTT BORDOW AZCENTRAL SPORTS
JOE SCARNICI/GETTY IMAGES
Pitcher Kenta Maeda is introduced as a Los Angeles Dodger at Dodger Stadium. Maeda is expected to add depth to the starting rotation.
Dodgers hav e big pay roll and ex pectations to match ZACH BUCHANAN AZCENTRAL SPORTS
The National League West got much more competitive over the winter as the Giants and Diamondbacks splurged on pitchers, but many still expect the Dodgers to be the power in the division. They didn’t do a lot of offseason spending despite their unrivaled financial clout, but still will feature the game’s biggest payroll. Many from the division title team are back. Veterans Chase Utley and Howie Kendrick help the infield mix, and the lineup still features big-name players Adrian Gonzalez, Yasiel Puig and Andre Ethier. The big hit was losing starter Zack Greinke to Arizona, but the Dodgers compensated by trying to sign every intriguing starter left on the market. The highlights were Scott Kazmir and Japanese import Kenta Maeda, but the rotation battle could be
eight or nine deep when others such as Brandon McCarthy and Hyun-Jin Ryu return from surgeries. Do n ’t m is s : The Dodgers boast left-handed ace Clayton Kershaw. The guy has been one of the game’s best pitchers – if not the best – since 2009, and it’s easy to forget how young he is. Kershaw won’t turn 28 until March 19. He enters the season sporting a career 2.43 ERA, and that number drops to 2.30 when eliminating his rookie season. Po s i t i o n bat t l e: Top prospect Corey Seager is entrenched at short and Gonzalez is set at first, but Los Angeles has more bodies for second and third than they can use. Justin Turner doesn’t have wide name-recognition, but has been a solid performer at third the past two years. Young second baseman Kike Hernandez looked ready for a bigger
Man ager : Dave Roberts Las t s eas o n : 92-70 Bi g ch an ges : Acquired pitchers Kenta Maeda (free agent), Scott Kaz mir (free agent) and Joe Blanton (free agent). Lost pitcher Zack Greinke (free agent), shortstop Jimmy Rollins (free agent), and manager Don Mattingly (fired).
role after performing well over 200 plate appearances a year ago. There’s your infield, right? Not quite. The Dodgers also brought back Utley and Kendrick at a total cost of $27 million despite having no clear route to playing time. On t h e r i s e: Seager is considered the best prospect in the game, and looked the part after hitting .337 with a .986 OPS after a late-season callup in 2015.
If there was any team in baseball that needed to make significant offseason moves it was the White Sox. First, they reside in a division with the Royals and the spend-what-it-takes-towin Tigers. Second, the Cubs are all the rage in the Windy City. If the White Sox hope to steal at least a sliver of the spotlight they need to be markedly better than the club that finished 10 games below .500 last season. The emphasis for General Manager Rick Hahn was to upgrade a poor offense. The acquisition of outfielder Todd Frazier from Cincinnati should go a long way toward improving those numbers; Frazier hit 35 homers last year. The worry: He tailed off considerably after the AllStar break, hitting .220 with just 10 homers the second half of the season. The top end of the rotation is stacked with Chris Sale, Jose Quintana and Carlos Rodon and the bullpen is deep in power arms, with Nate Jones and David Robertson closing games. Do n ’t m i s s : Had he played on a better team first baseman Jose Abreu would have been a Most Valuable Player candidate last year. Abreu is the complete package offensively; he hit .290 last year with 30 homers and 101RBIs and he was 10th in the American League in slugging percentage. The only nitpick: He struck out
NAM Y. HUH/AP
Todd Fraz ier is expected to add power to the club’s lineup. He hit 35 homers last year, but he slumped late in the season.
140 times while drawing just 39 walks. Consider this, though: Chicago’s clean-up hitter last year was Adam LaRoche, who hit .207 with a .340 slugging percentage. Now here comes Frazier and his .498 slugging percentage. If he bats fourth, as expected, pitchers won’t be able to pitch around Abreu as they did at times last season. Po s i t i o n bat t l e: The loss of veteran Alexei Ramirez – he signed with San Diego as a free agent – left a hole at shortstop. Tyler Saladino played mostly third last year but he’s a natural shortstop. The problem: He hit just .225 with a horrific .267 on-base percentage. It’s the same for Carlos Sanchez, an above-average defensive player who hit .224 with a .268 on-base percentage in 2015. Chi-
Man ager : Robin Ventura Las t s eas o n : 76-86 Bi g ch an ges : Added 3B Todd Fraz ier, 2B Brett Lawrie, C Alex Avila; lost P Jeff Samardz ija, IF Gordon Beckham, SS Alexei Ramirez
cago could turn to top prospect Tim Anderson, who was an offensive star at Double-A Birmingham, hitting .312 with 46 RBIs and 49 stolen bases. Anderson’s defense has been an issue – he had 25 errors last season. On t h e r i s e: Rodon has validated the club’s belief that he’ll be a future ace. The left-hander was 9-6 last year with a 3.75 ERA and he got stronger as the year went on; his ERA was 2.48 in August and 2.03 in September..
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016 PAGE 9
C A C T U S L E A G U E 2 016 | C A M E L B A C K R A N C H
See Lasorda at Camelback Ranch The Chicago White Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers share Camelback Ranch Glendale, which is actually in Phoenix. It covers 141 acres, making it the largest complex in the Cactus League.
life-siz e Tommy Lasorda bobblehead doll.
Det ai l s : 10710 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix. 623-302-5000, camelbackranchbaseball.com.
Meet -an d-gr eet s : The railings are low, so the left- and right-field corners of the stadium are good places to approach players on game days. The Dodgers enter from the left-field corner, the White Sox from the right.
What to know when you visit
Eating and drinking nearby
In s i der t i p s : There is a $3 surcharge on tickets purchased on the day of the game. Save money by purchasing in advance. Parking at the complex is free.
Sal t Taco s y Teq u i l a: Bacon-wrapped stuffed tomatillos, habanero guava lobster tacos and braised chuck tortas are served at this Mexican cantina, which took over the former Margaritaville at Westgate Entertainment District. The restaurant, owned by the same team that runs Whiskey Rose, serves cocktails, margaritas and doz ens of tequila varieties.
Fo o d an d dr i n k : New food options include macaroni and cheese with a variety of toppings, plus fresh steamed tamales. Enjoy a Three Amigos margarita at Montejo Patio on the stadium’s main concourse. Th i n gs t o l o o k fo r : The main stadium features players' retired numbers above each club' s bullpen. Adjacent to the Dodgers practice fields, fans can take photos with a
Det ai l s : Westgate Entertainment District , Loop 101 and Glendale Avenue, Glendale. 623-772-7282, saltglendale.com.
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+;Ap>1 ;: @41 B1>31 ;2 ?;91@45:3 .1-A@52A8 ',6&29(5 7+( 1(:(67 &$&+(7 +20(6 &20081,7< /2&$7(' ,1 /,7&+),(/' 3$5. FEATURING THREE DISTINCT HOME COLLECTIONS THE VILLA COLLECTION Condos
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Prices and plans subject to change without notice. Public Reports are available at the ADRE website.
PAGE 10 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016
C A C T U S L E A G U E 2 016 | C U B S | AT H L E T I C S
Cubs go all-in w ith a Athletics hoping for World Series title the goal bounce-back season ZACH BUCHANAN
BOB MCMANAMAN
AZCENTRAL SPORTS
AZCENTRAL SPORTS
The Cubs committed significant resources a year ago but didn’t expect to really contend until this season. They handily beat their own projections by tallying 97 wins and beating National League champ St. Louis before being swept by the New York Mets in the NLCS. A significant portion of Chicago’s success was thanks to its young, talented core. First baseman Anthony Rizzo, shortstop Addison Russell, third baseman Kris Bryant and right fielder Jorge Soler all held down regular spots in the lineup. Slugger Kyle Schwarber was called up midway through the season and clubbed 16 homers in 69 games. Then, of course, there was ace Jake Arrieta earning his first NL Cy Young. Seeing that core, the Cubs went out and spent oodles of money. Chicago committed $184 million for the prize of the position-player market, Jason Heyward, who will take over for the departed Dexter Fowler in center. Ben Zobrist got $56 million to fill a hole at second and veteran John Lackey got $32 million to slot behind Arrieta and Jon Lester in the rotation. A World Series win is clearly the standard to which Chicago fans will be holding their team. Do n ’t m i s s : All eyes will be on Arrieta. The 29year-old recorded a 1.77 ERA with a league-high four complete games in 2015. No other pitcher qualified for the ERA title gave up fewer hits-pernine-innings (5.9) or hom-
For a team on a budget, the A’s managed to make enough to moves to at least make them think this year has to be better than 2015, when they finished with the worst record in the American League. They’ve solidified the bullpen, but the starting rotation remains a question mark behind ace Sonny Gray, who went 14-7 last season and finished third in AL Cy Young Award voting. Jesse Hahn and Rich Hill, the 35-yearold lefty, will try to help anchor things for manager Bob Melvin, who admits, “The rotation isn’t settled.” Oakland will need designated hitter Billy Butler to have a bounceback season and it would certainly help if outfielder Coco Crisp can stay healthy. There isn’t really a big bopper anywhere in the batting order, although Yonder Alonso should bring some steady offense and above-average defense at first base. Do n ’t m i s s : Gray has been one of the more intriguing starting pitchers in baseball since he made his big-league debut midway through the 2013 season. He’s gone 33-20 with a 2.88 ERA and he’s just starting to come into his own as a leader and a perennial Cy Young candidate. This year it will be interesting to see if he can maintain his consistency over a full season. Gray is hopeful that an increased offseason
ANTHONY GRUPPUSO/USA TODAY SPORTS
Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jake Arrieta won his first Cy Young Award last season.
ers-per-nine (0.4). What’s absurd is how good Arrieta was in the second half of the season. The right-hander had a 0.86 ERA in his final 20 starts and a ridiculous 0.41 mark in his final 12. He followed that up with a shutout of the Pittsburgh Pirates in the wild-card game, although he gave up four runs in each of his next two playoff starts. Po s i t i o n bat t l e: The Cubs patched together a bullpen from spare parts last season and now have more pieces than they can likely use. Closer Hector Rondon is a shoo-in, as are Strop and Justin Grimm. The Cubs also re-signed Trevor Cahill for use in a relief role and traded for Rex Brothers from the Colorado Rockies. On t h e r i s e: The Cubs don’t have a pressing need at catcher, but it shouldn’t be too long before top prospect Willson Contreras is contributing in the majors. Starter Miguel Montero is 31 and played in just
Man ager : Joe Maddon Las t s eas o n : 97-65 Bi g ch an ges : Acquired second baseman Ben Zobrist (free agent), outfielder Jason Heyward (free agent) and starter John Lackey (free agent). Lost outfielder Dexter Fowler (free agent), infielder Starlin Castro (trade with New York Yankees) and starter Dan Haren (retired).
113 games last year and under contract through 2017. Backup David Ross is likely to retire after the upcoming campaign. With the catching experiment all but over with Schwarber, that leaves a path to contribution for Contreras. The 23-year-old hit .333 with 34 doubles and an .891 OPS in Double-A last year, and he followed that up with a nice showing in the Arizona Fall League.
ED SZCZEPANSKI/USA TODAY SPORTS
Oakland Athletics starting pitcher Sonny Gray went 14-7 last season and finished third in Cy Young voting.
strengthening program will eliminate some of the minor core injuries that have hindered him. Po s i t i o n bat t l e: Jarrod Parker seeks to pitch his way into the starting competition as he continues his uphill climb back from two Tommy John surgeries and an operation to repair a fractured elbow he suffered during rehab last year. In 61 starts for the A’s from 2012-13, Parker went 25-16 with a 3.73 ERA and Melvin is on record saying the 27year-old remains an option as long as the medical staff gives its clearance. The odds are stacked against Parker, but cracking the rotation might be his best chance. On t h e r i s e: Though he has yet to pitch above Double-A, don’t be surprised if left-hander Sean Manaea, whom the club acquired from the Royals in the Ben Zobrist trade last July, earns a chance to make the A’s starting
Man ager : Bob Melvin, sixth season Las t s eas o n : 68-94. Bi g ch an ges : Billy Beane and GM David Forst reworked an overmatched bullpen, bringing in right-handers John Axford, Liam Hendriks, Ryan Madson and lefty Marc Rz epcynski, whom they acquired in a trade with the Padres along with new first baseman Yonder Alonso. The price was lefty reliever Drew Pomeranz and pitching prospect Jose Torres.
rotation. In seven starts at Double-A Midland, Manaea, 24, went 6-0 with a 1.90 ERA, a 1.15 WHIP and an average of 10.76 strikeouts every nine innings. He’s got a very good fastball and a killer slider that features a hard and tight late break. If he can refine his change-up and harness his mechanics, which are a bit funky, he could be everything the A’s could want.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016 PAGE 11
C A C T U S L E A G U E 2 016 | H O H O K A M S TA D I U M | S L O A N PA R K | P E O R I A S P O R T S C O M P L E X
Athletics now call Hohokam Stadium their spring home Gi v i n g back : The stadium' s volunteer partner, the Mesa HoHoKams, work as parking attendants and ushers. With the money earned through Spring Training, the Hohokam Foundation has given back to the community an average of $125,000 a year to benefit local youth.
The renovated ballpark opened in 2015, serving as the new home to the Oakland Athletics. Det ai l s : 1235 N. Center St., Mesa. 480-907-5489, athletics.com/spring.
What to know when you visit New feat u r es : New in 2016 is the Stomper’s Kid Zone behind centerfield fence, presented by Amaz ing Jakes. The area features tee ball, bean bags, arts and crafts perfect for children 10 and younger. Fans can also view the players from the “ knothole” fence on the practice field before game time. Down the first base line the A’s added the Right Field Lounge, a group party area with unique food and beverage options all under plenty of shade. Fo o d an d dr i n k : The Right Field Corner now features Chick Fil A. The unique restaurants from 2015 are all returning this season, including a Bay Area staple, Ike’s Love and Sandwiches, and true New York piz z a in the desert from Streets of New York. The A’s also added a Pepsi Grab N Go stand located by Gate D. Fans can now purchase drinks, food, and their favorite A’s merchandise all from the same location and all at the same register. Wh er e t o s i t : Every seat in the ballpark has a
Eating and drinking nearby MICHAEL SCHENNUM / THE REPUBLIC
Fans fill Mesa’s Hohokam Stadium to watch the Oakland A’s take on the San Francisco Giants in 2015. premium view of the action. Shaded seats are available in the Terrace Box sections and are close to the action. If you' re looking for sun, the outfield berm is a great way to take in a game. Best of all, tickets to a game, whether right behind home plate or as a picnic on the berm, are affordable for everyone to enjoy a day at Hohokam. Get t i n g t h er e: Parking is $5 a car on stadium grounds. Officials suggest you arrive at least two hours before the first pitch to see the team take batting practice in the main stadium and secure a parking spot.
Rep u bl i ca Em p an ada: This Latin restaurant features a large variety of savory empanadas, such as the pernil, cheeseburger, achiote potato and Cubana varieties. Sweet empanadas, tortas, salads, beer, wine and cocktails also are available. Closed Sundays. Det ai l s : 204 E. First Ave., Mesa. 480-969-1343, republicaempanada.com. Lo s Do s Mo l i n o s : The Mexican restaurant features authentic fare, with dishes such as poz ole, red chili beef burro, adovada ribs and shrimp Veracruz . The drink menu includes fishbowl margaritas to share and a beer and shot special. Det ai l s : 260 S. Alma School Road, Mesa. 480-969-7475, losdosmolinosmesa.com.
Cubs’ Sloan Park offers modern amenities w ith old sty le After decades of training at Hohokam Stadium, the Chicago Cubs got a new home in 2014: Sloan Park.
hot ticket for the Cubs. It' s on March 12. Other hot tickets include the March 26 game against the San Francisco Giants.
Det ai l s : 2330 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Mesa. 480-668-0500, sloanpark.com.
At m o s p h er e: The facility was designed to reflect the team, so there are touches that should feel familiar to any Wrigley Field deniz en: a brick pattern behind home plate, a cantilevered roof, outfield-lawn seating and a scoreboard reminiscent of Chicago' s north-side stadium.
What to know when you visit In s i der t i p s : One of the park' s fun features is the left-field deck known as the Budweiser Rooftop. It features bleachers, a trellis and a party atmosphere. Tickets start at $14. Fo o d an d dr i n k : The food is a blend of Chicago-style cuisine and Southwestern chow. If that' s not enough variety for you, a citrus grove inside the park will host four to five food trucks each game. You won’t find Giordano’s at the stadium this year, but you will find Italian beef sandwiches from Portillo’s. Ho t t i ck et s : The White Sox game is always a
Fam i l y t i m e: The Riverview Park complex, adjacent to Sloan Park, boasts 300 feet of rock-climbing walls, a 50-foot climbing tower, a net-climbing structure, a splash pad, interactive play equipment and a path that connects it to Sloan Park. St ay an d p l ay : Nestled between Sloan Park and Riverview Park is a new, 180-room Sheraton hotel with three swimming pools, a steak house and an upscale-casual sports-themed restaurant.
Eating and drinking nearby Po r t i l l o ' s Ho t Do gs : This Windy City transplant features an atmosphere adorned with 1930s, ' 40s and ' 50s memorabilia. The place is known for its Chicago hot dog that includes mustard, tomatoes, pickle, sport peppers, relish and onion (don' t ask for ketchup here!) and the Italian beef dipped (or not) in gravy. Det ai l s : Tempe Marketplace, Loop 202 and McClintock Drive. 480-967-7988, portillos.com. Th e Br as s Tap : On the other side of the ballpark is Mesa Riverview, another outdoor shopping center. A craft-beer lover' s paradise, the Brass Tap bar features more than 60 taps. Nosh on a pretz el-crust piz z a, prime rib nachos or caprese flatbread. Det ai l s : 1033 N. Dobson Road, Mesa. 480-610-2337, brasstapbeerbar.com
Mariners, Padres share Peoria park The first park in Ariz ona to host two teams, Peoria Sports Complex opened in 1994. The Seattle Mariners and the San Diego Padres renewed a 20-year lease in 2013. Det ai l s : 16101 N. 83rd Ave., Peoria. 623-773-8720,springtrainingpeoria.com.
What to know when you visit In s i der t i p s : With advance purchase on value- and regular-priced game dates all season, receive a discounted family package of four hot dogs, four small sodas, four bags of chips, four cookies and four lawn tickets for $44. Four-legged friends are welcome on March 4. Bring your dog to the game and sit in the PAW-tio section on the lawn. Advance purchase price is $4 per dog and $5 per person. Day-of-game purchase is $5 per dog and $7 per person. 100 percent of the dog-admission fee supports the Ariz ona Humane Society. Discounts and dog tickets are available at the Ticket Office windows only. Fo o d an d dr i n k : Chow down on foot-long all-beef hot dogs and loaded specialty sausages, hot dogs and hamburgers. You’ll also find gyro wraps, barbecue, fish tacos, fusion noodles, kettle corn, snow cones and froz en yogurt. Every game, upgrade your experience at the shaded All You Can Eat Deck in right field for $20. Menu includes hot dogs, hamburgers, peanuts, chips, sodas and water. At select games, connoisseurs can taste craft brews from Ariz ona, Southern California and the Pacific Northwest with exclusive access to the private patio, bar and restrooms of the brand-new air-conditioned Colonnade, outfitted with televisions and seating. For $20, receive five 12-ounce beers of your choice and enjoy the game. Wh er e t o s i t : New shaded upper-box sections have been installed down the left-field line above the exclusive Colonnade. Get a group of at least 20 people together and enjoy the luxury of the Colonnade with its private bar, patio and restrooms plus air conditioning, televisions and an additional field-side seat to watch the game. Menu includes a carving station, grilled chicken breast, roasted red potatoes, crudité s, rolls and desserts. Meet -an d-gr eet s : Autograph Alley is the place to score autographs. That’s where players enter the field near the right-field corner.
PAGE 12 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016
C A C T U S L E A G U E 2 016 | R A N G E R S | R OYA L S
Tex as Rangers seek to continue momentum
Kansas City Roy als rely on championship pedigree
ZACH BUCHANAN
SCOTT BORDOW
AZCENTRAL SPORTS
AZCENTRAL SPORTS
The Rangers entered the 2015 season with few expectations after a disastrous 2014 campaign destroyed by injuries. They finished it as the surprise winners of the American League West and gave the Toronto Blue Jays a good fight in the division series. Several factors contributed to that success. High-priced veterans Prince Fielder and Shin-Soo Choo regained their form to power the offense. Youngsters Rougned Odor and Delino DeShields established themselves at second and center, respectively. Texas also made an impressive in-season move to bolster its rotation by acquiring Cole Hamels from the Philadelphia Phillies to pitch alongside Yovani Gallardo. Gallardo is gone, but ace Yu Darvish will be coming back from Tommy John surgery about a month into the season. Do n ’t m i s s : Third baseman Adrian Beltre is on the verge of his 37th birthday. He’s spoken of hoping to remain with the Rangers past this season, which is his last year under contract, but it’s anybody’s guess how much longer Beltre can keep playing. Injuries have limited him in recent years, but whenever he does retire Beltre will likely end up a Hall of Famer. He’s been worth more than 62 wins over the course of his career, according to Baseball-Reference’s WAR (wins above replacement player) metric, and is one of the smoother defenders around at third base. Po s i t i o n bat t l e: Cole Hamels is a fixture atop the rotation, and the Rangers re-signed veteran Colby Lewis to provide predictability in the four or five slot. What happens in between is a bit of a mystery. Left-hander Martin Perez likely slots in as the No. 2 starter after returning from Tommy John surgery midway through 2015. Fellow southpaw Derrick Holland has experience and a history of success at the big-league level – not to mention a $10 million salary for 2016 – but is coming off a poor return from injury last year. On t h e r i s e: Prodigious baseball masher Joey Gallo got a taste of the majors last year, clubbing six home runs in
One baseball writer said the World Series champion Royals had the third worst offseason of any team in baseball. Of course, few were impressed with what Kansas City after 2014 and that turned out all right. Even after a quiet offseason – and, really, it’s not like they needed an overhaul – Kansas City has one of the better young but experienced lineups in baseball: Lorenzo Cain, Eric Hosmer, Mike Moustakas, Salvador Perez, etc. And the Royals were able to resign team leader Alex Gordon to a four-year, $72 million deal that likely will keep him in a Kansas City uniform the rest of his career. If there’s a question about the defending champs it’s the starting rotation. They lost Johnny Cueto to the Giants and gained Ian Kennedy, who was 9-15 with a 4.28 ERA last year for San Diego. Do n ' t m i s s : By any significant statistical category the Royals have had baseball’s best bullpen since 2013. Kansas City’s formula was simple: Have a lead after six innings and then turn it over to the pen and, in particular, Wade Davis in the eighth inning and Greg Holland in the ninth. The bullpen, however, isn’t as deep as it’s been in the past. Holland likely will miss all season while recovering from Tommy John surgery and the Royals didn’t offer him a contract, making him a free agent. It’s not the ninth inning Kansas City has to worry about; Davis converted 17 of 18 opportunities in the regular season and was unhittable in the postseason. It’s the seventh and eighth innings that could spell trouble, so Joakim Soria’s acquisition is important. If Soria pitches like he did in 2015 – when he had a combined 24 saves for Detroit and Pittsburgh – he can fill Davis’ previous role as the setup man. Po s i t i o n bat t l e: The loss of right fielder Alex Rios won’t cripple the Royals – he had just four homers and 32 RBIs last year in 385 at-bats – but it might be significant only because there’s no ready-made replacement in right field.
KEVIN JAIRAJ/USA TODAY SPORTS
Texas right fielder Shin-Soo Choo regained his offensive form in 2015 to help lead the Rangers to the AL West title.
Man ager : Jeff Banister Las t s eas o n : 88-74. Bi g ch an ges : Acquired reliever Tom Wilhelmsen (trade with Seattle) and outfielder Justin Ruggiano (free agent). Lost starting pitcher Yovani Gallardo (free agent), outfielder Leonys Martin (trade with Seattle) and first baseman Mike Napoli (free agent).
36 games. But it was clear he wasn’t ready for a full-time role, as he hit just .204 with a .301 on-base percentage. Gallo will likely start in the minors, where he owns a career .971 OPS. Key for him will be getting control of his strikeouts. The 22-year-old went down swinging a whopping 46.3 percent of the time in his brief major-league stint, and has a strikeout rate of 34.7 percent in the minors. If he can get a better feel for the strike zone, there should be opportunities with the big-league club. Left field is less than awe-inspiring with a combination of the oft-injured Josh Hamilton and the little-used Justin Ruggiano. Gallo could earn time there before eventually taking over for Beltre at third in 2017.
ROBERT DEUTSCH/USA TODAY SPORTS
Kansas City Royals players Mike Moustakas (8), Eric Hosmer (35) and Alcides Escobar (2) celebrate after defeating the New York Mets in game five of the World Series at Citi Field. Man ager : Ned Yost Las t s eas o n : 95-67 Bi g ch an ges : Re-signed OF Alex Gordon, added P Ian Kennedy, P Joakim Soria; lost P Johnny Cueto, INF-OF Ben Zobrist, OF Alex Rios, P Ryan Madson
Speedster Jarrod Dyson likely has the inside track on the job. He had 26 stolen bases in just 200 at-bats last year. But there’s some concern that the 31year-old Dyson is better suited to coming off the bench, that his numbers and value will drop if he’s an everyday player. Plus, if he’s a reserve he can back up Cain in center and Gordon in left. On t h e r i s e: This might seem an odd category for a 29-year-old but there’s no question that Cain is becoming – if he isn’t already – one of the best everyday players in the game. Last year, Cain became the first Royals player to score at least 100 runs and he set or tied career highs in homers, RBIs, batting average and stolen bases while posting a Wins Above Replacement figure of 7.2. Only seven position players had a higher WAR.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016 PAGE 13
C A C T U S L E A G U E 2 016 | S U R P R I S E S TA D I U M
Surprise hosts World Series champs The coz y facility is the spring-training home of the Texas Rangers and Kansas City Royals. Det ai l s : 15930 N. Bullard Ave., Surprise. 623-222-2222, surprisespringtraining.com.
What to know when you visit In s i der t i p : The Surprise Recreation Campus – the Campus of Champions – welcomes the World Series Champions Kansas City Royals and is the only Cactus League Stadium that hosts two American League Champion teams over the past decade - the Kansas City Royals (2014, 2015) and Texas Rangers (2011, 2012). Fo o d an d dr i n k : There is a wide variety of food and beverages to choose from. Joining the traditional favorite ballpark foods such as hot dogs, hamburgers and nachos are new items such as a Grilled Corn on the Cob, Mini Bacon Cheddar Muffin Dogs, Bacon Mac ' n Cheese Dog, fresh pork tenderloin sandwiches, waffle fries, fresh chicken strips, toasted turkey or Italian sandwiches. To quench your thirst, there are craft and premium beer stands and the new Souvenir Margarita on the Rocks. Food and drink items range from $3 to $11. Wh er e t o s i t : If a picnic atmosphere is your craving, bring a blanket and sit on the green grass berm overlooking right and left field. The Budweiser Home Run Party Deck in right field offers an all inclusive catered lunch, great premium seat and a drink ticket with a private bar. Group rates are available. For $30, (excluding premium games) you receive entry to the party tent, premium seat viewing overlooking right field, catered meal by area restaurants and one drink voucher. And, with two large-screen televisions, you don' t have to worry about missing any other sporting events, including March madness. Meet -an d-gr eet s : Rub shoulders with your favorite Ranger and Royal players and seek that coveted autograph. The practice fields open at 9:30 a.m. and entry is free. Purchasing a game ticket strategically for the ballgame down the right or left field is key, as players enter from the right and left field lines. Pr o m o t i o n s : Opening day, Wednesday, March 2, is the Surprise Sundancers Charity Game. Proceeds from the game go to the Sundancer Youth Scholarship program. Saturday, March 5, is the World Series Celebration. The Kansas City Royals will have the World Series Trophy on display as well as a special pre-game ceremony.
Eating and drinking nearby
CHRISTOPHER HANEWINCKEL/USA TODAY SPORTS
Surprise Stadium is the spring training home to the Texas Rangers and the World Series Champion Kansas City Royals. Sai go n Ki t ch en : This restaurant serves Vietnamese staples such as pho, banh mi, spring rolls and com dia (rice plates). The menu also has specialty dishes including soy garlic Cornish hen, siz z ling salmon and filet mignon stew. Sip on a Vietnamese iced coffee or order a cocktail from the full bar. Det ai l s : 14071 W. Bell Road, Surprise. 623-544-6400, saigonkitchenaz .com. New Yo r k Fl av o r : Grab a bite before the game with more than 25 sandwiches to choose from. Breakfast is served all day, and dishes include Mikey' s Cheez ee Eggs and the Gramercy Park sandwich. Lunch includes New York favorites such as a hot pastrami or corned beef; and signature sandwiches with New York-centric names like the Staten Island or Delancy Street. There' s also burgers, hot dogs, pastas and salads. Det ai l s : 15170 W. Bell Road, Surprise. 623-266-2520, newyorkflavor.com. Babbo It al i an Eat er y : The extensive menu at this Ariz ona-based chain features artichoke, shrimp and crab dip, Babbo’s Bowl O’ Bolognese pasta and quattro formaggi piz z a. Also look for salads, sandwiches, calz ones and desserts. Happy hour is 3:30-6 p.m. weekdays and features $6 appetiz ers, 8-inch piz z as, cocktails and well drinks. Blood Mary cocktails and mimosas are $6 all day Sundays. Det ai l s : 15609 W. Bell Road, Surprise. 623-825-1919, babboitalian.com. Ir i s h Wo l fh o u n d: Irish fare, friendly staff and a huge beer selection are all offered at the Irish Wolfhound Restaurant and Pub. The menu features everything from Guinness-battered fish and chips and traditional Irish breakfast (weekends only) to Irish Jacketed potato nachos and Irish Wolfhound burger. Det ai l s : 16811 N. Litchfield Road, Surprise. 623-214-1004, irishwolfhoundpub.com. AR-0008514681-03
PAGE 14 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016
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C A C T U S L E A G U E 2 016 | R E D S | I N D I A N S
Idle in offseason, Indians are long shot to contend SCOTT BORDOW AZCENTRAL SPORTS
STEVE MITCHELL/USA TODAY SPORTS
Cincinnati Reds second baseman Brandon Phillips (left) talks with first baseman Joey Votto. The two are among the few remaining core players from the team’s tear down.
Cincinnati Reds join ranks of NL rebuilders NICK PIECORO AZCENTRAL SPORTS
For the first time this decade, the Reds are entering the season without even a glimmer of hope at contention. They know it and they’re OK with it. And, in the grand scheme of the National League, they’re not unique. The Reds are following the blueprint laid out by the Chicago Cubs and Houston Astros in recent years – they’re not just rebuilding, they’re tearing down completely. After dealing pitchers Johnny Cueto and Mike Leake and outfielder Marlon Byrd last season, the Reds unloaded closer Aroldis Chapman and third baseman Todd Frazier this winter. About all that’s left from the veteran core that kept them in contention for most of the past six seasons is first baseman Joey Votto, second baseman Brandon Phillips and outfielder Jay Bruce. And
the Reds seem more than willing to trade the latter two. Do n ’t m i s s : Joey Votto. After a down, injuryplagued 2014 season, Votto bounced back last season and posted what might have been the best year of his career. The thing about going out to watch Votto play is you need an appreciation of the finer points of his game because there’s a chance Votto won’t swing the bat in two or three trips to the plate. Votto might have the best plate discipline of anyone in the majors. Po s i t i o n bat t l e: With Cueto and Leake gone, the Reds really have only two established starting pitchers – and, with Anthony DeSclafani and Raisel Iglesias, they’re not exactly household names. The rest of the rotation is wide open, with a host of young pitchers competing for spots, including Michael Lorenzen, John Lamb, Keyvius Sampson
Man ager : Bryan Price. Las t s eas o n : 64-98. Bi g ch an ges : Acquired infielder Jose Peraz a (trade with Dodgers), outfielders Scott Schebler (trade with Dodgers) and Jake Cave (Rule 5 draft) and left-hander Chris O’Grady (Rule 5 draft). Lost reliever Aroldis Chapman (trade with Yankees), third baseman Todd Fraz ier (trade with White Sox), utility man Skip Schumacher (free agent) and catcher Brayan Pena (free agent).
and Brandon Finnegan. On t h e r i s e: The saving grace with the Reds’ current situation is that picking just one young player for this category isn’t easy. So with nods to outfielder Jesse Winker and right-hander Robert Stephenson, we’ll go with left-hander Cody Reed, one of the key pieces the Reds acquired in for Cueto.
After finishing one game above .500 in 2015 the Indians did little in the off-season to indicate they’re ready to contend in the American League Central. Their biggest acquisitions were 34-year-old Mike Napoli, who had 18 homers and 50 RBIs last year but batted .224, and 35-year-old outfielder Rajai Davis, who stole just 18 bases in 2015, his lowest total in seven years. The relative inactivity was even more surprising because the Indians are one of the few teams with a surplus of starting pitchers; it was widely believed Cleveland would trade a young starter for a big bat. That rotation is impressive, though, led by Corey Kluber, who won 18 games just two years ago and is still a true No. 1 even after a 2015 season in which he went 916. Fourteen-game winner Carlos Carrasco would be an Opening Day starter for a lot of teams, and No. 3 Danny Salazar also won 14 games last year. Do n ’t m i s s : Michael Brantley’s return from shoulder surgery in November will be one of the key story lines for the Indians. When healthy, Brantley is one of the Tribe’s most consistent offensive players; in 529 at-bats last year he hit .310 with 15 homers and 84 RBIs and he also swiped 15 bases. He likely will be the everyday No. 3 hitter
DAVID RICHARD/USA TODAY SPORTS
Cleveland Indians starting pitcher Corey Kluber went 9-16 last season after winning 18 the year before. Man ager : Terry Francona Las t s eas o n : 81-80 Bi g ch an ges : Added outfielder Rajai Davis, 1B Mike Napoli, OF Joey Butler. Lost P Shaun Marcum, 3B-1B Chris Johnson
when he comes off the disabled list. Brantley is expected to miss at least the first couple weeks of the season and possibly all of April. That’s not a huge concern. But consider how Diamondbacks second baseman Chris Owings struggled in 2015 after off-season shoulder surgery. Will Brantley suffer the same plight or can he again be the hitter that led the AL in doubles (45) in 2015. Po s i t i o n bat t l e: The Indians’ lack of offense is nowhere more evident than third base, where
Giovanny Urshela is the likely starter despite a .225/.279/.330 slash line last year over 288 plate appearances. But 24year-old Yandy Diaz could emerge with the job if he plays well in Cactus League games. Diaz hit .315 with Double-A Akron last year with a .412 on-base percentage. He’s not a power hitter – he had just seven homers in 476 at-bats but it’s not as if Urshela is banging the ball out of the park, either. On t h e r i s e: The Indians have a future star, shortstop Francisco Lindor. They knew Lindor was a defensive wizard when they called him up in June but there were doubts about his ability to hit major league pitching. Lindor’s response? He hit .313 with 12 homers, 51 RBIs and 12 stolen bases in 390 at-bats.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016 PAGE 15
C A C T U S L E A G U E 2 016 | G O O DY E A R B A L L PA R K
Goody ear Ballpark features fav orite Ohio fare sessions and more.
One of the newer parks in the Cactus League, this is the spring training and player development home of the Cleveland Indians and Cincinnati Reds.
Fo o d an d dr i n k : Ohio fans, rejoice. You' ll find a Skyline Chili dog and Cleveland Polish Boy in the Queen City Grill and 1901 Charter Grille, the two main concession stands. The ballpark also stocks Bertman Ball Park Mustard. Souvenir cups are available for $8 with refills for $2. Brunch at the Ballpark is back in 2016, and will take place before the games on March 6 and 18. Before all night games (March 12, 19, 24, 28 and 29), the ballpark opens two hours early for happy hour .
Det ai l s : 1933 S. Ballpark Way. 623-882-3120, goodyearbp.com.
What to know when you visit In s i der t i p s : Goodyear Ballpark is the only spring-training facility with its own mascot. Ziz z y is out and about at all the games, dressed in his finest baseball duds. Fan Fest is scheduled an hour after the last out on Saturday, March 26. Tickets include on-field contests and giveaways, autograph
Wh er e t o s i t : Goodyear Ballpark has 1,500 lawn seats and 500 seats in its right-field pavilion. For ages 3 to 12, you can find half-price tickets for kids in Outfield Box, Outfield
Reserved and Berm seating. If you' d like to get a little classier, reserve a club or premium field box seat, where you get a wider, padded seat and your own server. Fam i l y t i m e: The Estrella Falls Kids Zone is free and includes inflatable baseball activities and the kid-siz e Wiffle ball field. Sundays are kids days, where children participate in pregame festivities and promotions and can run the bases after the game. Jason Kipnis and Joey Votto bobbleheads will be given away to the first 2,000 fans on March 5 and 6, respectively. Fireworks are scheduled post-game on March 12 and 19 and there will be a post-game Eggstravaganz a on March 27
The Reds and Indians turn Goodyear into a slice of Ohio.
—
an egg hunt for treat-filled eggs on the field for children 12 and younger. Gi v i n g back : March 2 has been designated as a charity game, with all the Indians and Reds proceeds being donated to Homeless Youth Connection and New Life Center.
Eating and drinking nearby Saddl e Mo u n t ai n Br ew i n g Co .: Jacob and Laura Hansen run Goodyear' s first and only brewery, which features beers like the 300 Foot Steve Free Style Ale, Hob Snob West Coast IPA and Chasing Tail Amber Ale, plus seasonal and special-release beers. Det ai l s : 15651 W. Roosevelt
JOE CAMPOREALE /USA TODAY SPORTS
St., Goodyear. 623-249-5520, saddlemountain brewing.com. Au gi e' s Sp o r t s Gr i l l : Specials during happy, 3-7 p.m. daily, include $2.50 domestic drafts, $3.50 imported drafts, $3 glasses of wine, $4 well drinks and select discounted appetiz ers. The menu features burgers, sandwiches, piz z a, salads and desserts. Det ai l s : 15605 W. Roosevelt St., Goodyear. 623-932-0001,
augiessportsgrill.com. Tas t e o f It al y : Baseball fans will feel at home at this fast-casual eatery. The family-owned spot is convenient before or after the game, serving hearty portions of sub sandwiches, calz ones, pasta, piz z as and chicken wings. Det ai l s : 3810 S. Estrella Parkway, Goodyear. 623-932-2272, tasteofitalygoodyear.com
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PAGE 16 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016
C A C T U S L E A G U E 2 016 | A N G E L S | B R E W E R S
LA Angels try to rev erse their dow nw ard trend
Brew ers in early stages of the rebuilding process
SCOTT BORDOW
ZACH BUCHANAN
AZCENTRAL SPORTS
AZCENTRAL SPORTS
The Los Angeles Angels didn’t fall off the cliff in 2015. They won 85 games and made a late push for a post-season berth. But after a 2014 season in which they went 98-64 and ran away with the American League West, the 13-game slide was cause for change. Billy Epler, formerly the director of scouting for the New York Yankees was named GM in October. The question is, did Epler do enough in the offseason to overtake the Texas Rangers or the young and improving Houston Astros? The Angels did improve their defense, adding shortstop Andrelton Simmons from Atlanta, but they did little to upgrade an offense that ranked 20th in baseball in runs scored and 27th in batting average. The starting rotation has two solid pitchers,Garrett Richards and Andrew Heaney, but then a bunch of age/injury questions with Jered Weaver, C.J. Wilson and Tyler Skaggs. Do n ’t m i s s : This has to start with outfielder Mike Trout, right? If Washington’s Bryce Harper is the best player in the game Trout isn’t far behind – if he’s behind at all. All Trout did last season was again produce MVP numbers: a .299 batting average with 41 homers, 90 RBIs, 11 stolen bases and a .402 on-base percentage. He also was a finalist for a Gold Glove. But if the Angels are going to contend they need continued production from 36-year-old first
The Brewers wound up in full rebuild mode early into the 2015 season and continued on that track this offseason. Milwaukee was essentially out of it after going 5-17 in April, and by the trade deadline Aramis Ramirez, Carlos Gomez, Gerardo Parra and Mike Fiers were shipped away. New General Manager David Stearns parted with first baseman Adam Lind (traded to the Seattle Mariners) and underperforming shortstop Jean Segura (traded to the Arizona Diamondbacks) over the winter, and on the eve of pitchers and catchers reporting shipped young left fielder Khris Davis to the Oakland Athletics. The tear-down will likely continue during the season. Catcher Jonathan Lucroy is likely the most popular trade target given his cheap salary and solid production, although the Brewers would surely love to get out from under the significant chunk of money they’re set to pay outfielder Ryan Braun and starter Matt Garza. Do n ’t m i s s : Love him or hate him, Braun can still get it done at the plate. Whether he could was very much an open question before the 2015 season. Braun started the 2013 season hot but played only 61 games due to a suspension for performance-enhancing drugs. The next year he hit just .266 with a .777 OPS – respectable num-
TROY TAORMINA/USA TODAY SPORTS
Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout (27) celebrates after scoring on an inside-the-park home run. Man ager : Mike Scioscia Las t s eas o n : 85-77 Bi g ch an ges : Added shortstop Andrelton Simmons; outfielder Craig Gentry; third baseman Yunel Escobar.
baseman Albert Pujols, who had good power numbers last year (40 homers, 95 RBIs) but career lows in batting average (.244) and on-base percentage (.307). Even more worrisome: Pujols had offseason surgery on his big toe and there’s some question as to whether he’ll be available for the start of the season. The Angels’ struggle to score runs puts even greater pressure on a starting rotation that has its own issues. Weaver, 33, was 7-12 with a 4.64 ERA last season, Wilson is coming off late-season elbow
surgery and Skaggs is trying to make his way back from Tommy John surgery. Po s i t i o n bat t l e: Twothirds of the Angels’ outfield is set with Trout in center and Arizona State product Kole Calhoun in right. Left field is another matter. Los Angeles’ left fielders last year had a slugging percentage of .317. To put that in perspective, new Diamondbacks pitcher Zack Greinke slugged at a .343 percentage. They may start with a less-than-savory platoon of right-handed hitter Craig Gentry and switch-hitting Daniel Nava. On t h e r i s e: Calhoun has become a fixture in the Angels’ lineup because he can hit (26 homers, 83 RBIs) in 2015 and he plays great defense, winning a Gold Glove last year.
RICK SCUTERI/USA TODAY SPORTS
Milwaukee Brewers right fielder Ryan Braun hit .285 with 25 homers and an .854 OPS. Man ager : Craig Counsell Las t s eas o n : 68-94 Bi g ch an ges : Acquired second baseman Aaron Hill (trade with Ariz ona), starter Chase Anderson (trade with Ariz ona) and first baseman Chris Carter (free agent). Lost first baseman Adam Lind (trade with Seattle), shortstop Jean Segura (trade with Ariz ona) and reliever Francisco Rodriguez (trade with Detroit).
bers, but nowhere near his MVP-level production from his PED-tainted days. Was Braun not the same player without the illegal boost? Or did injuries, which limited him to 135 games, have an oversized effect on his production? The 32-year-old quieted some critics last season. He played 140 games and hit .285 with 25 home runs and an .854 OPS. He was selected to the AllStar Game for the first time since he was connected to PEDs.
Po s i t i o n bat t l e: The Brewers are set in right field with Braun, but the competition for the other two spots will be fierce in spring training. Milwaukee has several directions it could go. The biggest hole to fill is in center. The 23-yearold Domingo Santana played 23 games there after Carlos Gomez was traded at last year’s deadline but doesn’t exactly profile as a plus defender. He did post solid offensive numbers after the trade. His biggest competition will be veteran Kirk Nieuwenhuis, who was claimed off waivers from the New York Mets and has posted strong defensive metrics. Also in the mix are former top-100 prospect Rymer Liriano, prospect Keon Broxton and veteran Eric Young Jr., in camp on a minor-league deal. Liriano is out of options and must stay on the bigleague team to avoid being exposed to waivers, while Young Jr. has the most big-league experience of the bunch. Broxton is coming off back-toback good years in the minors, but has just 95 games above Double-A. On t h e r i s e: The Brewers will take it slow with top prospect Orlando Arcia, but most indications are that he’s darn close to being major-league ready. He’s only 21, but is coming off a year in which he hit .375 with an .800 OPS in Double-A. His defensive skill set is “beyond reproach” according to B a seb a ll A meric a . With Milwaukee projected to be terrible, there’s no sense in rushing Arcia to the majors.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016 PAGE 17
C A C T U S L E A G U E 2 016 | T E M P E D I A B L O S TA D I U M | M A R Y VA L E B A S E B A L L PA R K
Made in shade at Tempe Diablo
Mary v ale home to Brew ers, sausages
Built in 1969, Tempe Diablo is one of the most centrally located parks in the Cactus League. It' s home to the Los Angeles Angels.
The Milwaukee Brewers call this west-side complex home. The stadium holds 10,000. Det ai l s : 3600 N. 51st Ave., Phoenix. 623-245-5500, phoenix.gov/parks/sports/ professional-sports/maryvale-baseball-park and brewers.com.
Det ai l s : 2200 W. Alameda Drive. 480-350-5205, tempe.gov/diablo.
What to know when you visit
What to know when you visit
In s i der t i p s : On game day, parking is $5 per car. Fo o d an d dr i n k : The stadium hosts more than a doz en vendors during spring training, but you can bring your own snacks. Fans are allowed to pack soft backpacks (smaller than 16 inches by 16 inches) filled with food prepared at home. Each person is allowed one sealed bottled water. Just don' t bring in take-out food from an outside restaurant; that' s verboten. At the park, for $5 to $10, expect to see footlong hot dogs, brats and sausages, and nachos in souvenir Angels helmet. Wh er e t o s i t : If you' re looking for shade, you' re in luck. The upper pavilion in right field is shaded and offers an all-you-can-eat food package for $25 plus game ticket. Those tickets include table seating. And, yes, there is lawn seating. Meet -an d-gr eet s : It' s always easier to get autographs as players come and go from practice than on game days. The best spot to catch players is to camp out near the walking fence in the west parking lot between the stadium and practice fields. Otherwise, try to linger near the right-field line by the team' s locker rooms.
Eating and drinking nearby Co r n i s h Pas t y Co .: The original location of this popular casual spot serves pasties, a flaky baked pastry filled with meat and vegetables that originated in Cornwall. The menu features a variety of pasties, from the traditional Oggie (steak, potatoes, onion and rutabaga) to less traditional ones such as Royale with cheese, chicken pot pie and carne adovada. There' s also a robust selection of vegetarian pastries and a full bar. Det ai l s : 960 W. University Drive, Tempe. 480-894-6261, cornishpastyco.com. Cas ey Mo o r e' s Oy s t er Ho u s e: Less than 5 miles from Tempe Diablo Stadium, this neighborhood sports bar and restaurant also boasts a spacious patio. You can find raw and fried oysters, and oysters Rockefeller on the menu, as well as sandwiches, burgers, salads
MATT KARTOZIAN/USA TODAY SPORTS
Tempe Diablo Stadium was built in 1969 and hosts the Los Angeles Angels. If you’re looking for autographs try to catch players as they come and go from practice. and specialty dishes. Happy hour is 3-7 p.m. and 10 p.m. to close. Det ai l s : 850 S. Ash Ave., Tempe. 480-968-9935, caseymoores.com. Bo u l der s o n Br o adw ay : This bicycle-friendly, craft-beer-loving restaurant and bar is less than 3 miles from the stadium. The draft-beer list is always changing, with 30 taps and more than 70 types of bottled beer. This spot is known for its piz z as, with playful names like the Chuck Norris and L.A. Snob. The Ro Diddy steak sandwich and Moose Drool beer burger are sure to fill you up before or after a game.
In s i der t i p s : Fans can get their pictures taken with the Klement’s Famous Racing Sausages. The mascots that race at Miller Park in Milwaukee also take a turn at the Maryvale ballpark during the sixth inning. Fo o d an d dr i n k : Two new items will be featured this year: Klement’s Sausage Skewer – juicy slices of all five of the famous Klement’s sausages (hot dog, bratwurst, Italian, Polish, and choriz o) with peppers and onions; and the Wisconsin Friday Fish Fry – a Wisconsin tradition, with battered fish filets, fries, cole slaw and marble rye. Ret ai l : Check out the official Brewers team store, including new spring-training jersey
from Majestic and on-field cap from New Era featuring the ball and glove logo in navy and retro yellow and the 2016 spring-training logo. Gi v eaw ay s : Get in line, bobblehead buffs, the following figures will be available: Jonathan Lucroy to the first 1,500 fans on March 4; a vintage Brewers bobblehead to the first 1,500 on March 6; Bud Selig to the first 5,000 on March 12; Wily Peralta to the first 1,500 on March 18, and finally Paul Molitor to the first 1,000 on March 21.
Where to eat La Pi az z a Al Fo r n o This piz z a parlor in historical downtown Glendale is about 4 miles from the ballpark and worth the drive. The certified Napoletana piz z a is made with San Marz ano tomatoes, "00" flour and housemade dough, fired in the brick wood-burning oven. Det ai l s : 5803 W. Glendale Ave., Glendale. 623-847-3301, lapiaz z aalforno.com.
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Det ai l s : 530 W. Broadway Road, Tempe. 480-921-9431, bouldersonbroadway.com. Cu l i n ar y Dr o p o u t : The third Valley location of Fox Restaurant Concepts' upbeat gastropub is located in the Yard at Farmer Arts District, a repurposed warehouse development. The food menu features soft pretz el bites with provolone fondue, pork belly ramen, turkey pastrami and fried chicken. The drink menu has a wide variety of craft beers, wine and specialty cocktails. Happy hour is 2-5 p.m. weekdays. Head out to the covered patio to play a game of ping pong or cornhole. Det ai l s : 149 S. Farmer Ave., Tempe. 480-240-1601, culinarydropout.com.
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PAGE 18 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016
C A C T U S L E A G U E 2 016 | PA D R E S | M A R I N E R S
Padres try to mov e on from stumble in 2015
Mariners hope rebuild ends postseason drought
ZACH BUCHANAN
BOB MCMANAMAN
AZCENTRAL SPORTS
AZCENTRAL SPORTS
The Padres swung for the fences a winter ago, with new General Manager A.J. Preller executing a bunch of high-profile trades to bring in outfielders Justin Upton, Wil Myers and Matt Kemp, as well as closer Craig Kimbrel. Preller failed to lift the figurative ball out of the park, and barely made contact. San Diego never performed, and longtime manager Bud Black was fired midway through the season. The Padres compounded their mistakes by holding on to all of their expensive veterans at the trade deadline, clinging to an absurd notion that they still had a shot at the playoffs. Do n ’t m i s s : Catch the Padres’ top pitchers while you still can, because it may soon be in the club’s best interest to trade them for prospects. The 28-year-old Tyson Ross is the gem of the group. He doesn’t hit 95 mph as regularly as he did a few years ago, but the righthander has a 3.07 ERA over the past three seasons. He’s set to hit free agency after the 2018 season, which means he might not be a fit for the Padres’ forecast window of contention. Fellow right-hander Andrew Cashner sure doesn’t. The hard-throwing 29-year-old will be a free agent after this season and would be an affordable pitching upgrade for a contender at the price point of $7.5 million this year. Cashner put up a 2.87 ERA from 201314, although he took a step
No team in the majors has a longer playoff drought than the Mariners, who haven’t reached postseason play since 2001 – the debut season of Ichiro Suzuki. It was assumed Seattle would get there two years ago once Robinson Cano was acquired. It didn’t happen. And it didn't last season, either, after the Mariners added Nelson Cruz and Seth Smith. Could 2016 be the year? Dipoto swung multiple trades and dived into free agency to add nearly 20 new faces to the 40man roster in hopes of augmenting the cast of regulars that includes ace Felix Hernandez, fellow right-hander Hisashi Iwakuma, Cano and third baseman Kyle Seager. The Mariners, who also have a new manager in 2016, Scott Servais, brought in two starting pitchers, lefty Wade Miley and Nathan Karns, a first baseman (Adam Lind), catcher (Chris Iannetta), plus a pair of outfielders (Nori Aoki, Leonys Martin) and a slew of relievers (Steve Cishek, Joaquin Benoit, Justin De Fratus and Ryan Cook.) Do n ’t m i s s : Though his numbers might not have been eye-popping last season, Cano remains one of the better hitters in baseball and he’s still an electrifying second baseman who's always fun to watch. He’s a catalyst and if he has a strong and steady
JAKE ROTH/USA TODAY SPORTS
San Diego Padres starting pitcher Tyson Ross has compiled a 3.07 ERA over the past three seasons.
back with a 4.34 mark last year. Po s i t i o n bat t l e: Derek Norris likely has the inside track on the starting catcher job after an average year at the plate and a solid offensive track record. He also improved at defending the running game by catching 34 percent of would-be stealers, up from his career rate of 27 percent. But he’s got prospect Austin Hedges nipping at his heels. Hedges, a secondround pick in the 2011 draft, made his big-league debut last season. He struggled at the plate with a .168/.215/.248 line in 152 plate appearances but comes with a strong defensive reputation. On t h e r i s e: Former supplemental-round draft pick Travis Jankowski made his big-league debut last season, but saw time in just 34 games. With only Matt Kemp locked into an outfield position – Justin Upton left via free
Man ager : Andy Green Las t s eas o n : 74-88. Bi g ch an ges : Acquired shortstop Alexei Ramirez (free agent), reliever Fernando Rodney (free agent) and outfielder Jon Jay (trade with St. Louis). Lost outfielder Justin Upton (free agent), closer Craig Kimbrel (trade with Boston) and starter Ian Kennedy (free agent).
agency and Wil Myers is a first baseman now – Jankowski has a real shot at earning time. Jankowski profiles as a center fielder with limited offensive potential, although he had a terrific 2015 in the high minors. Neither Melvin Upton Jr. nor Jon Jay figure to be permanent solutions in center, so it would likely best serve the Padres to see what Jankowski can do.
WINSLOW TOWNSON/USA TODAY SPORTS
The Seattle Mariners’ Robinson Cano led all second basemen in runs batted in with 79. Man ager : Scott Servais (first year) Las t s eas o n : 76-86 Bi g ch an ges : General Manager Jerry Dipoto restructured with a diz z ying number of trades and free-agent signings. The subtractions include relief pitchers along lefty Roenis.
spring, don’t be surprised if Seattle rides that success and momentum into the regular season. Among all second basemen in 2015, Cano finished first in RBIs (79), second in home runs (21), fourth in hits (179) and fifth in slugging percentage (.446). And he finished the season on a much better pace, too, batting .331with 15 homers and 49 RBIs in the second half. He played the final couple months while dealing with a sports hernia, which required offseason surgery. Po s i t i o n bat t l e: Who’s going to be the Nos. 4-5 starters behind Hernandez, Iwakuma and Miley? All signs point to right-
hander Taijuan Walker easily nailing down the fourth spot after an 11-win season. After him, there are a lot of questions but little to no concerns as the Mariners have plenty of options for the final spot. Karns joins James Paxton, Vidal Nuno and Mike Montgomery. On t h e r i s e: If this isn’t the year Walker finally enjoys his breakout season, it may never come. The Mariners have been counting on it since they made Walker a firstround pick in 2010 as a 17year-old. He tore through the minor-league system and showed big promise upon making his debut in 2013. But a nagging shoulder problem basically ruined his entire 2014 season and although he made 29 starts this past season, he started slowly and it seemed to take him forever to relax and start throwing strikes, shouldering an ERA that topped out at 6.18 by the end of May. Once he found his groove, he was overpowering at times. In his final 20 starts, he went 10-3.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016 PAGE 19
C A C T U S L E A G U E 2 016 | D AY - B Y - D AY S C H E D U L E | S P R I N G T R A I N I N G B A L L PA R K S
SCHEDULE Tuesday, March 1 Univ. of Arizona at Diamondbacks, 3:10 p.m. Padres at Rockies, 1:05 p.m. Reds at Indians, 1:05 p.m. Wednesday, March 2 Diamondbacks at Colorado Rockies,1:10 p.m. Indians at Reds, 1:05 p.m. Univ. of Wisconsin at Brewers, 1:05 p.m. Padres at Mariners, 1:10 p.m. Angels at Giants, 1:05 p.m. Rangers at Royals, 1:05 p.m. Thursday, March 3 Diamondbacks at Rockies, 1:10 p.m. White Sox at Dodgers, 1:05 p.m. Reds at Indians, 1:05 p.m. Cubs at Brewers (ss), 1:05 p.m. Mariners at Padres, 1:10 p.m. Brewers (ss) at Giants, 1:05 p.m. Rangers at Royals, 1:05 p.m. A’s at Angels, 1:10 p.m. Friday, March 4 A’s (ss) at Diamondbacks, 1:10 p.m. Indians at White Sox, 1:05 p.m. Giants at Reds, 1:05 p.m. Rockies at A’s (ss), 1:05 p.m. Mariners at Brewers, 1:05 p.m. Royals at Padres, 7:10 p.m. Angels at Cubs, 1:05 p.m. Dodgers at Rangers, 1:05 p.m. Saturday, March 5 Diamondbacks at Dodgers, 1:05 p.m. Giants (ss) at Indians, 1:05 p.m. Brewers at A’s, 1:05 p.m. Angels at Mariners, 1:10 p.m. Padres at Rockies, 1:10 p.m. Rangers at Giants, 1:05 p.m. Reds at Cubs, 1:05 p.m. Royals at White Sox, 1:05 p.m. Sunday, March 6 Cubs at Diamondbacks, 1:10 p.m. Padres (ss) at White Sox, 1:05 p.m. Rockies at Reds, 1:05 p.m. Indians at Brewers, 1:05 p.m. A’s at Padres (ss), 1:10 p.m. Cubs at Diamondbacks, 1:10 p.m. Dodgers at Giants, 1:05 p.m. Mariners at Rangers, 1:05 p.m. Royals at Angels, 1:10 p.m. Monday, March 7 Diamondbacks at Mariners, 1:10 p.m. Cubs at Rockies, 1:10 p.m. Indians at Dodgers, 1:05 p.m. Angels (ss) at Reds, 1:05 p.m. Royals at A’s, 1:05 p.m. Padres at Brewers, 1:05 p.m. Giants at Rangers, 1:05 p.m. White Sox at Angels (ss), 1:05 p.m. Tuesday, March 8 Diamondbacks (ss) at Padres, 1:10 p.m. Angels at Diamondbacks (ss), 4:10 p.m. Brewers at White Sox, 1:05 p.m. Mariners at Indians, 1:05 p.m. Rangers at A’s, 1:05 p.m. Reds at Giants, 1:05 p.m. Dodgers at Cubs, 1:05 p.m. Rockies at Royals, 1:05 p.m. Wednesday, March 9 Padres at Diamondbacks, 1:10 p.m. A’s at White Sox, 1:05 p.m. Rangers at Reds, 1:05 p.m. Royals (ss) at Mariners, 1:10 p.m. Rockies at Giants, 1:05 p.m. Indians at Cubs, 1:05 p.m. Brewers at Royals (ss), 1:05 p.m. Dodgers at Angels, 1:10 p.m. Thursday, March 10 Diamondbacks at Angels, 1:10 p.m. Royals at White Sox (ss), 1:05 p.m. Padres at Indians, 1:05 p.m. Dodgers at A’s, 1:05 p.m. Giants at Brewers, 1:05 p.m. Cubs at Mariners, 1:10 p.m. Reds at Rockies, 1:10 p.m. White Sox (ss) at Rangers, 1:05 p.m. Diamondbacks at Angels, 1:10 p.m. Friday, March 11 Diamondbacks at Royals, 1:05 p.m. Angels at Dodgers, 1:05 p.m. A’s at Reds (ss), 1:05 p.m. Rangers at Brewers, 1:05 p.m. White Sox at Padres, 1:10 p.m.
Indians at Rockies, 1:10 p.m. Mariners at Giants, 1:05 p.m. Reds (ss) at Cubs, 1:05 p.m. Saturday, March 12 Royals at Diamondbacks (ss), 1:10 p.m. Diamondbacks (ss) at Giants (ss), 1:05 p.m. Cubs (ss) at Dodgers (ss), 1:05 p.m. Mariners (ss) at Reds, 1:05 p.m. Rockies at Brewers, 1:05 p.m. Indians at Padres, 2:30 p.m. Dodgers (ss) at Mariners (ss), 7:40 p.m. White Sox at Cubs (ss), 1:05 p.m. A’s at Rangers, 1:05 p.m. Giants (ss) at Angels, 1:10 p.m. Sunday, March 13 Diamondbacks at White Sox, 1:05 p.m. Brewers at Indians (ss), 1:05 p.m. Cubs at A’s, 1:05 p.m. Reds at Mariners, 1:10 p.m. Dodgers at Rockies, 1:10 p.m. Padres at Giants, 3:05 p.m. Indians (ss) at Royals, 1:05 p.m. Rangers at Angels, 1:10 p.m. Monday, March 14 Mariners (ss) at Diamondbacks, 1:10 p.m. Brewers at Dodgers, 1:05 p.m. Rangers at Indians, 1:05 p.m. Giants at A’s, 1:05 p.m. Rockies at Mariners (ss), 1:10 p.m. Padres at Cubs, 1:05 p.m. White Sox at Royals, 1:05 p.m. Reds at Angels, 1:10 p.m. Tuesday, March 15 Dodgers at White Sox, 1:05 p.m. Royals at Reds, 1:05 p.m. Cubs at Padres, 1:10 p.m. A’s at Rockies, 1:10 p.m. Indians at Rangers, 1:05 p.m. Mariners at Angels, 1:10 p.m. Wednesday, March 16 Reds at Diamondbacks, 6:40 p.m. Rockies at Dodgers, 1:05 p.m. Angels at Indians, 1:05 p.m. White Sox at Brewers, 1:05 p.m. Giants at Mariners, 1:10 p.m. Cubs at Royals, 1:05 p.m. Thursday, March 17 Diamondbacks at Cubs, 1:05 p.m. Royals at Dodgers, 1:05 p.m. Indians at Reds, 1:05 p.m. Mariners at A’s, 1:05 p.m. Giants at Padres, 7:10 p.m. Angels at Rockies, 1:10 p.m. Brewers at Rangers, 6:05 p.m. Friday, March 18 Dodgers at Diamondbacks, 1:10 p.m. Cubs at White Sox, 1:05 p.m. A’s at Indians, 1:05 p.m. Reds at Brewers, 1:05 p.m. Rangers (ss) at Mariners, 1:10 p.m. Padres at Giants, 1:05 p.m. Angels (ss) at Royals (ss), 1:05 p.m. Rockies at Angels (ss), 1:10 p.m. Saturday, March 19 Rangers (ss) at Diamondbacks (ss), 1:10 p.m. Diamondbacks (ss) at Mariners (ss), 7:10 p.m. Dodgers at White Sox, 1:05 p.m. Cubs at Indians, 1:05 p.m. Reds at A’s, 1:05 p.m. Rockies at Padres, 7:10 p.m. A’s (ss) at Giants, 1:05 p.m. Mariners (ss) at Royals (ss), 1:05 p.m. Sunday, March 20 Padres at Dodgers (ss), 1:05 p.m. Diamondbacks at Reds, 1:05 p.m. White Sox at A's, 1:05 p.m. Dodgers (ss) at Brewers, 1:05 p.m. Indians at Mariners, 1:10 p.m. Giants at Rockies, 1:10 p.m. Royals at Cubs, 1:05 p.m. Angels at Rangers, 1:05 p.m. Monday, March 21 Mariners at Dodgers, 1:05 p.m. White Sox at Indians, 1:05 p.m. Angels at Brewers (ss), 1:05 p.m. Reds at Padres, 7:10 p.m. Brewers (ss) at Diamondbacks, 6:40 p.m. A's at Giants, 1:05 p.m. Rockies at Rangers, 1:05 p.m.
Tuesday, March 22 Giants (ss) at White Sox, 1:05 p.m. Cubs at Reds, 1:05 p.m. Rangers at Padres, 1:10 p.m. Brewers at Rockies, 1:10 p.m. Giants (ss) at Diamondbacks, 7:10 p.m. Dodgers at Royals, 6:05 p.m. A's at Angels, 1:10 p.m. Wednesday, March 23 Giants at Diamondbacks, 1:10 p.m. Padres at White Sox, 1:05 p.m. Royals at Indians, 1:05 p.m. A's at Mariners, 7:10 p.m. Cubs at Rangers, 1:05 p.m. Thursday, March 24 Angels at White Sox, 1:05 p.m. Dodgers at Indians, 7:05 p.m. Rangers (ss) at A's, 7:05 p.m. Royals at Brewers, 1:05 p.m. Diamondbacks at Padres, 1:10 p.m. Mariners at Rockies, 1:10 p.m. Cubs at Giants, 4:05 p.m. Reds at Rangers (ss), 1:05 p.m. Friday, March 25 Giants (ss) at Dodgers, 7:05 p.m. Rockies vs Reds, 1:05 p.m. Angels at A's, 1:05 p.m. White Sox at Mariners, 1:10 p.m. Indians at Diamondbacks, 1:10 p.m. Royals at Giants (ss), 1:05 p.m. Brewers at Cubs, 1:05 p.m. Padres at Rangers, 6:05 p.m. Saturday, March 26 Reds (ss) vs White Sox (ss), 12:05 p.m. White Sox (ss) at Dodgers (ss), 7:05 p.m. Indians at Reds (ss), 1:05 p.m. Diamondbacks at Brewers, 1:05 p.m. Dodgers (ss) at Mariners, 1:10 p.m. Rangers at Rockies, 1:10 p.m. Giants at Cubs, 1:05 p.m. A's at Royals, 1:05 p.m. Padres at Angels, 1:10 p.m. Sunday, March 27 Reds at Dodgers, 1:05 p.m. Brewers at Indians, 1:05 p.m. Royals at A's, 1:05 p.m. Angels at Padres, 1:10 p.m. Rockies at Diamondbacks (ss), 1:10 p.m. White Sox at Giants, 1:05 p.m. Mariners at Cubs, 1:05 p.m. Diamondbacks (ss) at Rangers, 1:05 p.m. Monday, March 28 Rangers at Dodgers, 7:05 p.m. Brewers at Reds, 7:05 p.m. Indians at A's, 1:05 p.m. Royals (ss) at Mariners, 1:10 p.m. White Sox at Rockies, 1:10 p.m. Diamondbacks at Giants, 1:05 p.m. Padres at Royals (ss), 1:05 p.m. Cubs at Angels, 1:10 p.m. Tuesday, March 29 Rangers at White Sox, 1:05 p.m. Mariners at Indians (ss), 6:05 p.m. Reds at Brewers, 1:05 p.m. Dodgers at Padres, 1:10 p.m. Rockies at Diamondbacks, 1:10 p.m. A's at Cubs, 1:05 p.m. Giants at Royals, 6:05 p.m. Indians (ss) at Angels, 12:10 p.m. Wednesday, March 30 Indians at Dodgers, 1:05 p.m. White Sox at Reds, 1:05 p.m. Diamondbacks at A's, 12:05 p.m. Padres at Mariners, 12:10 p.m. Brewers at Rockies, 1:10 p.m. Rockies at Cubs, 1:05 p.m. Royals at Rangers, 12:05 p.m. Thursday, March 31 Reds at Indians, 12:05 p.m. Diamondbacks at Rockies, 12:10 p.m. Friday, April 1 Royals at Diamondbacks, Chase Field, 6:40 p.m. Rockies at Mariners, 7:10 p.m. Friday, April 2 Royals at Diamondbacks, Chase Field, 1:10 p.m. Mariners at Rockies, 12:10 p.m.
Peoria
1
101
101
2 Phoenix
Surprise
17
60
Glendale
5
51
Scottsdale
3
4
10
7
Goodyear
9
202
River Salt
10
87
8 6
Mesa
Tempe
60 101
10 MILES
4
202
1
Surprise Stadium 15850 N. Bullard Ave., Surprise Teams: Royals, Rangers Tickets: 623-222-2222
6
Hohokam Stadium 1235 N. Center St., Mesa Team: Athletics Tickets: 1-877-493-2255
2
Peoria Sports Complex 16101 N. 83rd Ave., Peoria Teams: Padres, Mariners Tickets: 623-773-8720
7
Scottsdale Stadium 7408 E. Osborn Road, Scottsdale Team: Giants Tickets: 1-877-473-4849
3
Camelback Ranch 10710 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix Teams: Dodgers, White Sox Tickets: 800-745-3000
8
Sloan Park 2330 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Mesa Team: Cubs Tickets: 480-668-0500
4
Maryvale Baseball Park 3600 N. 51st Ave., Phoenix Team: Brewers Tickets: 800-933-7890
9
Goodyear Ballpark 1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear Teams: Reds, Indians Tickets: 623-882-3130
5
Salt River Fields 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale Teams: Diamondbacks, Rockies Tickets: 480-362-9467
10
Tempe Diablo Stadium 2200 W. Alameda Drive, Tempe Team: Angels Tickets: 800-745-3000
Go the distance | Mileage between Cactus League parks Sur
pri
se
Surprise Peoria Camelback Maryvale Salt River Hohokam Scottsdale Sloan Goodyear Tempe
Pe
Ca Sco Sa H M me lb a a r yva lt R iv oh o ka tt sd a ori c e le l m k a e r
— 11.5 13.6 18.2 38.2 39.8 33.9 41.5 17.9 32.9
10.9 — 12.7 11.5 30.2 33.0 27.3 36.4 23.1 26.0
13.6 12.7 — 9.0 38.8 33.1 27.6 28.1 8.1 26.0
18.2 11.5 9.0 — 27.8 23.8 17.9 23.0 13.3 16.6
38.2 30.2 38.8 27.8 — 12.0 6.0 8.7 42.7 18.0
39.8 33.0 33.1 23.8 12.0 — 9.1 3.1 37.0 13.5
Slo 33.9 27.3 27.6 17.9 6.0 9.1 — 6.3 31.7 9.7
Go ody T e a r em p e an 41.5 36.4 28.1 23.0 8.7 3.1 6.3 — 33.2 9.0
17.9 23.1 8.1 13.3 42.7 37.0 31.7 33.2 — 29.9
32.9 26.0 26.0 16.6 18.0 13.5 9.7 9.0 29.9 —
2 0
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016 SPECTAB