Braves Have Begun Grapefruit League Play

755 Forever

David was down in Florida for the Braves first few Spring Training games and gives Eric's his initial impressions. AJ Smith-Shawver started on Tuesday and despite giving up a few HRs, was hitting high 90's on the radar gun. Smith-Shawaver is among the arms competing for a place in the back end of the starting rotation.

(04:30) Ken Giles has impressed so far as he is fighting for a roster spot in the bullpen. Giles has barely pitched in the past few years due to injury and signed a minor league deal with Atlanta in early February.

(11:00) Chris Sale brought the heat in his first Spring start as he settles in with his new team. Hear David describe his outing against the Pirates in Bradenton which included his top flight slider.

(22:10) If you go to see the Braves play a road game in Florida, it's unlikely you'll see the regulars in that day's lineup. Eric explains the specifics that go into gameday prep during this time of year. The good news for the franchise is that their North Port location creates many fewer bus rides than when they played by Disney World.

(27:00) Get to know the 20 year old infielder Ignacio "Nacho" Alvarez who spent last year at High-A Rome. He already has a few hits and David has been impressed by what he seen from him so far.

(33:30) A scouting report on the young left handed pitcher Ray Kerr who Atlanta acquired in a December trade with the Padres. Listen to a brief explanation of his unusual journey from junior college to Braves camp.

(41:00) Charlie Culberson's attempt at trying to make the Braves as a pitcher is in full swing as he turns 35 in April.

(45:45) Quick conversation on the uniform controversy that has engulfed MLB. David has seen them up close and says they are as awful as everyone claims they are. They won't even tailor the pants!

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