A Star-Studded Display at Spring Training
At Camelback Ranch on Tuesday, the Los Angeles Dodgers hosted a live batting practice session that turned the routine into a spectacle. The team’s loaded pitching staff ensured that even the most mundane aspects of spring training became a showcase of star power. From two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell to high-profile free-agent signings Tanner Scott and Tyler Glasnow, the Dodgers trotted out one ace after another, drawing the attention of fans and team brass alike.
Blake Snell’s Impressive Debut
Blake Snell, the Dodgers’ $182 million signing, faced hitters for the first time as a Dodger on Tuesday. Despite giving up a home run to Chris Taylor, Snell’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. His mid-90s mph fastball and his wicked curveball/slider combination had batters struggling to make contact. Teammate Bobby Miller, who has become a mentee of Snell’s, was particularly impressed by the left-hander’s changeup. "He was nasty," Miller exclaimed. "His changeup is really good. I didn’t know he had it like that." Even veteran outfielder Michael Conforto, a former teammate of Snell’s with the San Francisco Giants, was left shaking his head. "I don’t even know what you do [against him]," Conforto joked. "You have to kind of guess, as a lefty."
Tyler Glasnow’s Reemergence
Tyler Glasnow, another of the Dodgers’ top pitchers, also had a notable session. Despite giving up a couple of long balls, Glasnow recorded strikeouts of Chris Taylor and new Korean infielder Hyeseong Kim in back-to-back at-bats. Glasnow, who missed the end of last season due to elbow tendinitis, showed encouraging signs of his return to form. Manager Dave Roberts noted that Glasnow was "a lot more athletic" in his delivery, attributing this to a renewed focus on upper body movements and spine angle. Glasnow explained that by staying in a healthier position, he could reduce the effort required for each pitch, leading to a more consistent performance throughout the season.
High-Leverage Relievers Take the Stage
The bullpen session on Tuesday was equally star-studded, with Tanner Scott, Kirby Yates, Luis García, Alex Vesia, and Anthony Banda all taking the mound. While the Dodgers aren’t officially declaring Scott as their closer, manager Dave Roberts hinted that he would get the bulk of save opportunities to start the season. The rest of the relievers, including returning pitchers Treinen, Yates, Vesia, and Banda, are expected to take on high-leverage roles. Jokes aside, the depth and talent in the Dodger bullpen are undeniable. "Our bullpen and our starting staff is pretty dang good," Scott said. "It’s gonna be really fun."
Ohtani’s Return Adds to the Star Power
Adding to the already impressive lineup, Shohei Ohtani threw his second bullpen session of spring training, pumping 21 fastballs over the plate as he continues to work toward his return to full-time two-way duties. Ohtani’s presence in the Dodgers’ pitching staff further emphasizes the team’s exceptional depth and talent. As the Dodgers look to avoid another pitching injury crisis, their lavish depth provides a strong foundation for the upcoming season.
A Team of Superstars, United in Purpose
Despite the abundance of superstars, the Dodgers’ clubhouse atmosphere remains grounded. "Everyone’s aware there are all these superstars around," Glasnow said. "But I think once you are in a clubhouse with them enough, it’s like, they’re just all teammates." The team’s unity and focus are evident, with even the most mundane practice sessions transformed into high-energy events. "There’s a lot of talent, for sure," Snell said. "I think once games start, that’s when you get even more excited." With the Dodgers’ star-studded roster, the anticipation for the upcoming season is palpable.
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This story originally appeared in the Los Angeles Times.
