Diamondbacks Open Spring Training

As we awoke this morning we were greeted by the sounds of raindrops hitting the window. This is a fairly rare event when you live in the desert, so we’re always grateful for the moisture. Still, with Cactus League Spring Training games just four short days away, it is hard to be enthusiastic about rain.

In Tucson the Arizona Diamondbacks are continuing their preparation for the beginning of Spring Training. Pitchers are working frantically trying to get their work in before the rains make outside practice impossible.

Starting pitcher Brandon Webb had his latest bullpen session where he threw approximately 35 pitches in a field far away from the prying eyes of the media. After his workout he addressed the waiting reporters.

He described the less than ideal conditions and lamented at not being able to complete his entire workout due to the weather. As has been the case at every interview Webb reiterated that his arm felt great and things were progressing.

Manager AJ Hinch echoed the words of Webb stating that things were going according to plan and that it would not be too much longer before Webb would begin throwing to hitters.

There is not a defined timeline per se for Webb but if he hopes to be ready for the beginning of the season he will need to get his arm strength up to the point where he can comfortably throw five successful innings.

The team will continue to be very cautious with Webb’s workload and Hinch suggested he may hold out his ace until the middle of March before he sees any game action.

Even with this timetable it would still allow Webb enough time that he could be ready to face the San Diego Padres on April 7th. So while the weather may be gray and unsettled, the mood at Tucson Electric Park is sunny and warm with each pitch Webb throws.