MLB prepping for quick turnaround

Forget about those halcyon first few days of spring training, when arranging for the right tee time on the right golf course is often more challenging than the work on the field.

When major leaguers report next week for spring training 2.0, time will be one precious commodity with about three weeks to go before opening day.

“We’re going to have some live batting practices the first day they show up. Day 1 and Day 2. Multiple ups for the starters,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “These guys are prepared for that. They’ve been hungry for it.”

All across the majors, the race is on to set up travel plans and work out the details for training ahead of an unforgiving season of just 60 games. After intake coronavirus tests and a quarantine period while awaiting results, full-squad workouts likely will begin next weekend. The regular season starts July 23 and 24, leaving a short period for players to prepare and a tricky balance for managers trying to get their teams ready while also worrying about potential health issues.

“I think that the biggest issue is going to be just the buildup,” White Sox catcher James McCann said. “I honestly think that everyone’s done everything they possibly can to stay in shape, from pitchers throwing and hitters hitting. But there’s only so many swings in a cage and so many, you know, non-adrenaline bullpens you can throw. There’s a reason why we have six weeks of spring training, in a typical spring training.”

There is concern for starting pitchers, who take great care in building up their arms over an extended period. That’s one reason why active rosters will be 30 players during the first two weeks of the season, 28 during the second two weeks and 26 after that.

Beyond injury and coronavirus concerns, space is also an issue for baseball’s summer camp. While spring training facilities in Florida and Arizona have several backfields that players can use, teams are going to have to make the most of their home ballparks and a handful of area facilities. That means staggered start times for player workouts and extended days for coaching staffs.