PERFECT ATTENDANCE!
Along with the pitchers and catchers that have been here (officially) since Wednesday, Reds position players reported today to the club’s Spring Training complex in Goodyear, Arizona.
For the first time since I can remember, every player is accounted for on the first day; all 54 players are in big league camp, including reigning National League Most Valuable Player Joey Votto.
Before the baseball work started, the annual Goodyear Heart and Sole 5K Run/Walk took place this morning right outside Reds Spring Training Headquarters…
After more physicals this morning, the first full-team meeting was held in the Reds clubhouse. Dusty addressed the team, introduced staff members and essentially told the boys that they have what it takes to win again in 2011. Without getting into too much detail (the meeting is not for public consumption), I walked away with the hairs standing up on the back of my neck; it was a very inspirational .
Today is also a special day for Reds general manager Walt Jocketty, who’s celebrating the big 6-0!
After today’s meeting, the guys went outside to get some stretching in, followed by hitting and throwing. Because the weather today is less than satisfactory (windy and rainy), the workouts ended a bit earlier than scheduled.
It was great to catch up with Jonny Gomes this morning. After saying hello, he asked me how Reds Tattoosdays were going on the blog. Jonny’s a fan of that particular segment of Better Off Red. (author’s note: send me a photo of your Reds tattoo and it will appear here on BOR for the next “Reds Tattoosday” post. Do it or I’ll tell Jonny you’re not cooperating!)
Enjoy today’s photos!
“The Mohawk of Destruction“
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- I’m going to see The Fighter tonight. My quest to see all of the 2011 Academy Award nominated films will probably come to a screeching halt with Black Swan and/or Toy Story 3.
- I think I found a heavyweight contender for “album of the year.” Check out The Cave Singers‘ “No Witch” when it comes out on Tuesday. I’m smitten.
- The Reds first Spring Training game happens on February 27th against the Indians at Goodyear Ballpark.
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That’s all for now! Thanks for logging on. Have a great weekend!
Expect good news,
Jamie
