A look at what’s happening all around spring training in Florida and Arizona on Wednesday:
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WHAT A SURPRISE
A split squad of Royals host Milwaukee, a day after a swarm of bees descended on Surprise Stadium and briefly delayed the game between Kansas City and Colorado. Manager Ned Yost said no one was stung.
“They’re not going to mess with you, just don’t mess with them,” Yost said. “Kind of like the Royals, don’t mess with us and we won’t mess with you.”
STARTING OUT
Yovani Gallardo makes his debut for the Orioles, having signed with them as a free agent after spring camp had already opened. He’s made at least 30 starts in seven straight years. He pitches against a Phillies split squad – Baltimore is 0-8-1 in exhibition play so far.
READY?
Cardinals star catcher Yadier Molina could start against the Marlins. Still nursing an injured thumb that needed offseason surgery, he is expected to work behind the plate but not bat.
WE’LL SEE
Mets outfielder Curtis Granderson is expected to play against the Yankees after being out for a week because of an eye problem. “He put his contacts in today, so we’ll see how he reacts,” manager Terry Collins said. “But right now, he’s in the lineup.”
ALL ACES
Among the top pitchers in action are NL Cy Young Award winner Jake Arrieta in his spring debut for the Cubs vs. Cleveland, AL Cy Young winner Dallas Keuchel of the Astros vs. Atlanta and new Diamondbacks star Zack Greinke vs. San Diego.
CAN’T SEE HIM
White Sox star Chris Sale is likely to face Oakland on opening day April 4 at the Coliseum. So rather than give the A’s a free look now in an exhibition play, he’ll pitch a simulated game in the morning.
NEED SOMEONE
Phillies outfielder Aaron Altherr is having surgery on his left wrist, which he injured diving for a ball last week. He was the front-runner to start in right on opening day. Among the candidates to take the spot is Cody Asche, who has started to hit in his slow return from a right oblique injury.