SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ. —Less is more.
That’s more or less the Rockies’ tweaked philosophy this spring. Since Todd and the Toddlers ushered in a full-blown youth movement in 2003, the Rockies have been known as one of baseball’s hardest-working teams.
Early batting practice. Late BP. Infield drills. Extra conditioning. No one was immune, and few complained. But in looking at ways to improve this season and for the long term, the Rockies, who hold their first full-squad workout today, have focused on rest and recovery issues.
“What can you do to give them a different look, especially in fixing ways that didn’t go the ways they wanted?” manager Jim Tracy said.
Tracy, entering his fourth season with the Rockies, and the training staff have specific ideas.
As a concession to the older roster, he will look to give specific players complete off days periodically, informing them to stay away from the ballpark. He also plans to sprinkle in later report times and show-and-go days, when the players arrive to stretch and play.
The idea is to extend the plan into the regular season, as the team tries to get a better idea of recognizing mental fatigue. Last year, the Rockies jumped out to a 17-8 start, then spoiled their season with an 8-21 May.
“I want them ready on April 6, not April 15. But we have some very professional people in that clubhouse, so there’s going to be give and take there,” Tracy said. “As the season unfolds, we want to go about our business as quickly as possible.”
The real White. For Alex White, the difference is startling, leaving him looking forward to live BP today. Unlike a year ago, when his right middle finger prevented him from gripping his slider, affecting his confidence, the right-hander is healthy and eager.
“I can’t wait to face hitters and start proving myself, that what people saw at the end of the season wasn’t me,” White said.
Footnotes. The Rockies mapped out their pitching schedule for the week. Juan Nicasio will pitch in Sunday’s scrimmage and then will make his first appearance in a game, March 9 against Oakland at Salt River Fields, since breaking his neck last season. … After some early struggles in camp, reliever Edgmer Escalona is starting to work himself into shape during running drills. He’s a candidate for a bullpen spot.
