Dodgers: Wednesday spring training notes
Some highlights from Manager Joe Torre's morning chat with reporters today:
- On the Dodgers' final trip of the season to Arizona last year, Torre and his coaches called in the team's core group of young players to convey their belief in them and tell them that they were the foundation of the franchise. Taking part in the meeting were Russell Martin, Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier, James Loney and Jonathan Broxton. Chad Billingsley was excluded because he was starting that day. Torre said that in the wake of the departure of several key veterans, players from the group will have to start emerging as clubhouse leaders.
- Torre reiterated that 2010 will be his last year managing.
- Cory Wade received a cortisone injection in his shoulder and will be shut down for a few days. Wade was placed on the disabled list last year because of shoulder trouble but Torre said he didn't think his latest issue would be a significant problem because it was treated early.
- Injury-prone reliever Hong-Chih Kuo will be closely monitored this spring. Torre doesn't think he has to pitch many innings in the exhibition season to get ready for Opening Day.
- The Dodgers will hold their first full workout on Thursday. Rafael Furcal wasn't seen in the clubhouse this morning.
General Manager Ned Colletti said he's still talking to Manny Ramirez's agent, Scott Boras. Colletti also said that the Dodgers have had talks with the representatives of free-agent second baseman Orlando Hudson. "Right now, I have [financial] flexibility," Colletti said.
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-- Dylan Hernandez
Photo: Dodgers manager Joe Torre at spring training in Glendale, Ariz. Credit: Morry Gash / Associated Press
