We’ve got all these “NOW IT’S REAL” checkpoints when it comes to a new season, and while I can’t say that today’s is more of a thing than many of the others, I can say it’s the first one that has the full squad involved. Today was the first full team workout at Spring Training 2021, what with all players in camp (well, save for those still going through COVID-related protocols).
We are now just one week away from the Cubs’ first Spring Training game.
To my eye, Nico Hoerner looks thicker in the middle this year – like in a good, usable way:
Nico Hoerner prepares a swing, David Bote looks on and Willson Contreras readies for a pitch from Adbert Alzolay's live BP session in Mesa today. pic.twitter.com/nJhG5kpF4S
— Jordan Bastian (@MLBastian) February 22, 2021
Hoerner has actually always been pretty ripped up top, but that trunk is looking thick. Again, good and usable thick. Not trying to be a weirdo here. It matters for his power development!
Adbert Alzolay facing batters today:
Adbert Alzolay about to throw a live BP against Bote, Hoerner, Duffy and Giambrone. pic.twitter.com/4bjzzXkDZV
— Meghan Montemurro (@M_Montemurro) February 22, 2021
https://twitter.com/MLBastian/status/1363928058084745217
Absolutely obligatory pitcher fielding practice:
— Gordon Wittenmyer (@GDubCub) February 22, 2021
Wait for it … wait for it … THAT SOUND:
You hear that? ⚾️ pic.twitter.com/oDdAjHX4Rp
— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) February 22, 2021
More visuals:
https://twitter.com/Cubs/status/1363997614102863873
A few shots from this morning's workout: Alzolay during live BP, Bryant chats with HC Anthony Iapoce, bench coach Andy Green hitting grounders, Rizzo and Napoli heading off Field 1. pic.twitter.com/v9ww6mbolU
— Jordan Bastian (@MLBastian) February 22, 2021
Last round from today's workout: Bryant stepping out of the cage, Javy and Nico during infield, and Rizzo taking a practice hack. pic.twitter.com/e180mYJPiD
— Jordan Bastian (@MLBastian) February 22, 2021
If you’re thirsty, here’s Javy Báez fielding a groundball. pic.twitter.com/AfPfDAwTvu
— Russell Dorsey (@Russ_Dorsey1) February 22, 2021
— Gordon Wittenmyer (@GDubCub) February 22, 2021
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