*Here's an expanded story on Evan Gattis working with a personal trainer and losing 18 pounds this offseason in part to be able to return to catching part-time without putting strain on his knees, as well as playing some LF and 1B.
Catching's an option, playing a little left is an option, maybe taking ground balls is an option. I'm not really sure yet. I think being mobile, lighter and maintaining strength and kind of working on some unbalances will help me be a little more versatile.
*The Astros officially announced the signings of Wandy Rodriguez, Edwar Cabrera, and infielder Danny Worth to minor league contracts with invitations to Spring Training. Worth spent all of 2015 with Arizona at Triple-A Reno where he hit .314, playing mostly shortstop but seeing some time at 2B and 3B. There will be 60 players at Spring Training - 30 pitchers and 30 position players.
*It's a big Spring Training for Max Stassi, who could make the Opening Day roster for the first time in his career.
It's a little bit different this time with a good chance to break with the club. I'm really excited just to get down there to start getting better relationships with all my pitchers.
*Delaware native Brett Oberholtzer was pretty excited about getting traded to the Phillies.
I grew up a Phillies fan and went to games at the Vet and the Bank with my dad, so getting that call was a great moment...That phone call was a moment to put in the memory bank and say I'm a Philadelphia Phillie.
*Former Astro LJ Hoes sent a very sad tweet after getting DFA'd by the Orioles.
We didn't come out here to play tiddlywinks, son.
-Hal Smith
