Loading ...Camp Roger Underway
Written by Colin on February 2, 2009 – 2:44 amTommy Hanson, Tim Hudson, and Mike Gonzalez headlined the first day of Camp Roger, the early pitching camp at Turner Field. The program got underway on Friday and is overseen by pitching coach Roger McDowell. If you’re a Braves fan, I won’t need to tell you that Camp Roger is a continuation of Camp Leo, a program begun under Leo Mazzone.
Hanson pitched Friday for the first time as Cox and crew looked on, and Cox was impressed. He sounded like he expects Hanson to join the team either out of spring training or midseason – and he’s anticipating success when it happens. “Good looking kid,” Cox mused. Hanson is ready for it; he knows that in the end, all he has to go out there and throw the ball and prove his value to the Braves.
Mike Gonzalez is rip roaring and ready to go – enjoying what he called his first “normal” offseason. He pointed out that he hasn’t had an opportunity to pitch at 100% in Atlanta and is looking forward to showing off an improved changeup this season.
Tim Hudson is hoping to make his first throws off a mound later this week. He’s 5 months into what will be 12 month of rehab after Tommy John surgery that cut short his 2008 season. He will hopefully be back in time for the end of the season this year. He also cleared up any talk about not wanting the Braves to pick up his 2010 option. He’s hopeful that his pitching is impressive enough that the Braves will want to pick up the option and he looks forward to helping get the Braves back into the playoffs.
Also joining camp were Blaine Boyer, Stephen Marek, Anthony Lerew, and Eric O’Flaherty. Kenshin Kawakami is working out his visa and hopes to join before Friday, but the remaining three starting pitchers had not joined the voluntary camp yet. More updates as we hear them!
Tags: Camp, Camp Roger, Mike Gonzalez, Tim Hudson, Tommy Hanson
Posted in General | 6 Comments »
By dave on Feb 2, 2009 | Reply
I am happy the braves are encouraging their pitchers to participate in this program. I think it has served their pitchers well through the years. Good to hear Gonzo say he will be back to his old self this year although he didn't do to bad last year. I read where Tim threw from a distance of 120 feet, and I am glad he wants to remain a Brave. Sounds like Hanson is doing well, and many more are participating so it seems all is going well. Keep up the good work and good luck. Best wishes
By Keith on Feb 2, 2009 | Reply
I am a bit disappointed that Lowe and Vasquez are no shows @ early camp. You would think that big contacts and meeting the staff for the first time would be a priority.
By Jonathan on Feb 2, 2009 | Reply
I definitely agree. It's good to get them as much work as possible before the season. I'm hopeful that Huddy will be ready to go for 2010 and that he stays a Braves for years to come.
By Jonathan on Feb 2, 2009 | Reply
I'm not as bothered that the more veteran pitchers aren't at Camp Roger, as they have a little more structure to their offseason plans. I however agree, that new pitchers, despite their veteran status, would be nice to see out there getting to know some people and building relationships with all of the young guys.
By dave on Feb 2, 2009 | Reply
I hope the 3 new starters will join before this ends, it would be a send a positive message to the others. I have a question . Are there any signings or trades in the near future? I read where the Phills might be interested in Will Ohman. I personally want to see him back in a Braves uniform in 2009. I understand money we have to spend on payroll is close. I know Kelly and Jeff haven't signed. So where do we stand? How much more can we afford? Best Wishes
By FlaBravesFan on Feb 3, 2009 | Reply
It doesnt bother me either that Lowe Vazquez didnt show, they are professionals, and they will be ready. Nice to see Huddy there though, I hope he remains a Brave. I'll be going to quite a few games in Orlando for ST this year, I will report back from time to time and let ya know what I see….