NORTH PORT, Fla. – Felix Hernandez turned around with surprise as he sensed members of the media waiting to engage him Thursday at his locker.
“You want to talk to me?” the new Atlanta Braves pitcher asked.
Yes. Former Cy Young Award winners have a way of drawing interest.
The presence of “King Felix” is one of the early subplots for the reigning National League East Division champions. Free-agent acquisition Cole Hamels, pegged No. 4 in the team’s rotation, may miss three weeks of camp due to shoulder soreness and won’t be available at the start of the season. There already had been an expected battle for the No. 5 spot among Hernandez, Sean Newcomb, Josh Tomlin and Kyle Wright.
Atlanta pitchers and catchers worked out for the first time Thursday. Position players aren’t required to be in camp until next week.