Spring is in the Air, Eddie’s update from Dunedin

By Eddie Michels on February 17, 2014

John Gibbons opens up 2014 (EDDIE MICHELS PHOTO)

DUNEDIN, FLA.–Toronto Blue Jays manager John Gibbons met the press after the teams first workout for pitchers and catchers Monday. “This is the last time I will speak of last year,” said Gibbons, “We really didn’t play well last year… we didn’t play well anyplace.” Looking ahead to 2014 Gibbons said of Brandon Morrow, “It’s good to see him out there, he has put on some weight and is looking good.” As to his pitching staff this year Gibbons said, “We like the way it looks, we’re looking for that fifth guy.” In closing Gibbons said, “The bottom line is we have to perform on the field.”

Yesterday, here is Dioneer Navarro on his way to the cage for the first time as a Blue Jay. (EDDIE MICHELS PHOTO)

Dan Johnson looking for a career resurgence in Toronto (EDDIE MICHELS PHOTO)

Ricky Romero throws long toss on Saturday (EDDIE MICHELS PHOTO)

Will Eric Kratz give Navarro a run behind the dish. Kratz was with the Phillies last year bating .231 in 68 games with 7 doubles, 2 HR and 26 RBI (EDDIE MICHELS PHOTO)

Knuckballer R.A. Dickey throws his first bullpen session of the spring as manager John Gibbons looks on Monday at the Blue Jays minor league complex. Eric Kratz was catching Dickey and Gibbons, a former catcher himself said, “He (Kratz) was handcuffed a couple of times today.” (EDDIE MICHELS/PHOTO)

Right hander Kyle Drabek, son of Cy Young winner Doug Drabek throws his first bullpen session of the spring under the watchful eye of pitching coach Pete Walker. (EDDIE MICHELS/PHOTO)