Spring Training Miscellany: Diamondbacks 6, Cubs 2 – March 1, 2013
The Cubs got slapped around by the Diamondbacks today, and the greatest damage came from none other than Tony Campana, who drove in two with a double. It was his first hit of the Spring. Later, he tripled. Maybe his former team wanted to help him win a job on Arizona’s bench …
- Jeff Samardzija was solid today in his three innings of work, giving up just one hit and one earned run. I’m sure he would say that he’s not thrilled with the three walks, though.
- Cory Wade threw a scoreless frame, but Michael Bowden and Rafael Dolis struggled in their respective innings … in fact, Dolis didn’t actually even get in a full inning of work, since he couldn’t find the strike zone. He walked three, allowed a hit, and all four guys scored. That took just 0.1 innings of work. Dolis has an option left, and he’s not likely to make the opening bullpen (if he stays on the 40-man at all). His sinker has amazing movement, but, right now, that’s all he’s got.
- Anthony Rizzo had a couple hits as he readies himself to depart for the World Baseball Classic, in which he’ll play for Team Italy. Replacing him at first base in the game? Steve Clevenger, who’s going to get some looks over there.
- Junior Lake got in some time in center field today after David DeJesus was done. A versatile Lake could be a very valuable thing come 2014 … assuming he’s got a consistent and effective approach at the plate.
- Brett Jackson struck out twice in his two at bats today. The massive overreaction meter shifted in the other direction.
- Cubs pitchers issued 8 walks on the day, and struck out just 3. On the flip side, Cubs batters struck out 8 times, while walking just twice. You won’t win many games with those kind of numbers.
