Anthopoulos and Gibbons Give Insight to the Spring

By Eddie Michels on February 20, 2014

EDDIE MICHELS PHOTO

DUNEDIN, Fla.–Above, Toronto Blue Jays manager John Gibbons speaks to the media after today’s workout. “We’ve got some pretty good arms in our bullpen,” said Gibbons, “Everything went okay and I am glad that’s over with. Tomorrow is the first full squad and they (pitchers) will be facing live hitters.” Gibbons also mentioned an intra squad game on Tuesday (4-5 innings) as he says, “To get some of the young kids out there.”

Toronto Blue Jays GM Alex Anthopoulos addresses the media for 39-minutes Thursday prior to the teams workout at the Englebert Complex. “We can all agree there is a lot of talent on this team,” said Anthopoulos, “Our bullpen will be our strength, a lot of guys are going to surprise us.” As far as the teams [pitching and being able to compete in the AL East Anthopoulos said, “We have the talent and I feel good about the talent we have.” Anthopoulos was ask about the present free agent market he said, “With the cost of the guys out there we feel better with what we have.” With one new (Dioner Navarro) and one returning (Eric Kratz) catcher Anthopoulos spoke positively, “We made a change behind the plate that was needed there.” As to the one hole on the infield that needs attention, Anthopoulos said of second baseman Ryan Goins, “Love the defense, the defense is good, the question is the bat..” As to last season Anthopoulos took the blame. “We didn’t get the results we wanted, I am accountable for that.” (EDDIE MICHELS/PHOTO)

-Pitching coach Pete Walker and Manager John Gibbons watch J. A. Happ throw in the bullpen today. The coaches have been working with Happ on his arm slot during his delivery. (EDDIE MICHELS/PHOTO)

Toronto catcher Mike Nickeas gets ready for BP on Thursday February 20, 2014 at the teams minor league complex. Nickeas is a bit of a man of the world as be was born in Canada to a British father and an American mother. (EDDIE MICHELS/PHOTO)