NEW YORK — Spring training is expanding by nearly a week next year because of the World Baseball Classic. Players will start reporting to training camps Feb. 14, under an agreement between the players’ association and the commissioner’s office. Exhibition games will start about Feb. 25.
“If spring training were shorter it would be great. Obviously everybody would like it to be a little shorter,” Toronto outfielder Vernon Wells said. “It’s just kind of like Groundhog Day. It’s the same thing over and over again.”
The second edition of the 16-nation tournament begins March 5.
Footnotes.
A specialist recommended injured Cardinals pitcher Chris Carpenter undergo surgery for a compressed nerve in his shoulder, a procedure the team believes could have its ace back by spring training.
• Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter is day to day because of a sore left hand.
• Brewers interim manager Dale Sveum said he plans to pitch CC Sabathia again on short rest tonight against Pittsburgh. After that, Sveum said he doesn’t have a clue, except to say Sabathia would be available again for Sunday’s finale, if needed.
• Pirates outfielder Brandon Moss said he will travel to Vail to get a second opinion on his left knee and might need surgery to repair a cartilage problem in the joint.
The Associated Press
