Monday, February 18, 2002
Optimism reigns for Reds
Pitchers, catchers open spring training in Sarasota
By John Fay
The Cincinnati Enquirer
SARASOTA, Fla. — Most of baseball has already written off the Reds' chances of contending for this season.
But the team opened spring training Sunday at the Ed Smith Stadium complex with the usual optimism associated with baseball and spring training — the players and coaches believe they can win.
“I absolutely believe that,” said second-year manager Bob Boone. “You can intellectualize all you want about it. You can look at our personnel and say we don't have the horses to win. But I'm looking forward to 2002. The goal is to go to the playoffs and win the World Series.”
There are few longer shots in sports than the Reds doing that. The team lost 96 games last season, had the worst starting pitching in the National League and did little to improve in the off season.
The Reds opened camp Sunday with 34 pitchers and six catchers. (Three pitchers from the Dominican Republic — Jose Rijo, Luis Pineda and Ricardo Aramboles — did not report because of visa problems).
The workout Sunday was brief, only about two hours. But there was some good news: Every player passed his physical and was able to participate in the drills. Given last year's spate of injuries, that's a good sign. “I saw some good things,” Mr. Boone said.
Position players are scheduled to report Thursday. The first full-squad workout is Friday. The team opens the exhibition season Feb. 27 against the Twins.
Reds Stories
No Bengal picks likely
Logan's big night was a family affair
Women: Merrill's effort boosts UC
Is ranking good for XU?
Women: George Washington 61, Xavier 58
Winton Woods looks to avoid another early tourney exit
Ohio events this week
Kentucky events this week
Schedule: Boys
Schedule: Girls
Muskies join Bearcats in the coaches poll
Irish upset by 'Cuse
Old king Cole hits Duke
Top 25 roundup
UK's Fitch, Sears suspended for Tennessee game
Rivermen edge 'Clones
Struggling Admirals clip Ducks
Burton survives 'nerve-racking' finish
NASCAR-Daytona 500 Results
Skiles steps down, Phoenix still loses
Coming up this week
• Return to Reds front page...
Optimism reigns for Reds
