Dodgers Spring Training Notes

Dodger notes from my first day at Camelback Ranch.

Crawford Healing, Hitting

The big news today was Carl Crawford's spring training debut. Granted, it was just an exhibition game against a team from Japan, but the left-fielder got some much needed at bats.

Serving as a minor league squad's DH, Crawford went 3-5 with 2 singles, a double, a walk, a strikeout and 2 stolen bases.

A funny moment occurred during his second at bat. In these exhibition games, it's not uncommon for a major leaguer who is rehabbing to bat each inning, regardless of which team is at bat. So, when he went to the plate during the Japanese team's turn on offense and doubled, a loud round of applause erupted from the opposing dugout. Crawford cracked a wry smile.

Greinke Ready to Throw?

Zack Greinke, who has been sidelined with inflammation in his throwing elbow, is scheduled to throw on Friday according to manager Don Mattingly. Greinke, who signed a record-breaking 6 year, $147 million deal during the offseason, has made just 2 appearances with the club this spring. It's uncertain whether he'll be ready for opening day, or his scheduled start the day after, but I wouldn't bet on it.

Injury Scare

Sue Falsone was called over to attend to infielder Justin Sellers during drills this morning, after Sellers apparently rolled his ankle. He was helped off the field but came back later walking under his own power. Sellers' prospects of making the team aren't great, but he figures to get playing time with Albuquerque and could be an option to come up in case of injury.