On Northwestern’s football Web site, defensive end Corey Wootton calls dealing with injuries his most humbling experience. He now says the ankle, knee and quadriceps problems that plagued him the last year-and-a-half have healed, and he proved it Monday to 29 NFL scouts with a strong performance at the school’s pro day. Wootton spoke with Sporting News‘ Dave Curtis and other reporters after his workout.
Question: How nerve-wracking was this day for you?
Corey Wootton: A little bit. I didn’t participate in the Combine. I didn’t do our last pro day. So I think it was all on the line today. And I think I did a pretty good job. I wish I could have run a little better, but you know, I was looking forward today and did a pretty good job. (Note: Wootton said he was hoping to run in the 4.8-range; Northwestern officials later released that the average of his two 40-yard dashes was 4.92 seconds.)
Q: Have scouts told you what round you should be drafted in?
CW: Not really. We just talk about schemes and where they think I would fit, but nothing about round predictions.
Q: Where do you fit?
CW: Well, some teams want me to line up over the tackle and play an end in a 3-4 scheme. They know I can be a 4-3 end. Some people think I can be a rush linebacker in a 3-4, a standup player. So I was doing some DB drills out there today. But there are three different possibilities for me.
Q: How much linebacker stuff have you ever done?
CW: We’ve done stuff like that here, dropping (into coverage) from down in a stance. It’s something I like to do.
Q: When you’re getting ready to run a 40-yard dash, what goes through your head?
CW: Just thinking, ‘Get out,’ and try to run as fast as I can. And hope for the best.
Q: Is a second-round pick realistic for you?
CW: I’m hoping for it. You always hope for the best. You hope for the first round and that I impressed some people enough to do that. But you never know on draft day. You can go higher than expected, lower than expected. You just have to hope for the best.
Q: What kind of feedback did you get Monday?
CW: They felt like I did a good job without the knee brace because I played with a brace all season. They thought my change of direction was good. And I’m still improving the strength in my legs and trying to get that right. I felt about 90 percent today. So I’ve got 10 percent to go. I’m just looking forward to getting that back.
Q: What are your plans for draft day, April 22?
CW: I’ll be on the couch with my parents in New Jersey. Just hanging out.
Q: How odd has it to be poked and prodded the way you have? I think I saw one guy out there stretching you out.
CW: I expected that. They’re going to make a million-dollar investment in you, so they want to know everything about you, your flexibility and your injuries. I would do the same if I was a head coach or a G.M.
Q: What did you show those people today?
CW: I showed them I’m a lot healthier than I was during the season. I showed I could move around well without the brace and had good change-of-direction. They know I have a little bit left, and I’ll have it back by next season.
Q: Given your history, what kind of health concerns do you have going forward?
CW: I don’t feel I have any. It’s just the strength of the leg. My knee is structurally fine. My ankle is fine. It’s just getting back that strength, and I believe I’ll be ready for next season.
Q: Do you fight a mental block about getting hurt again?
CW: No. I’m past that point. It’s just the strength, and once I get that back I’ll be an even better player than I was when I was healthy two years ago.
Q: Any second thoughts about how you handled the past few months and not playing in the Senior Bowl or running at the Combine?
CW: Not at all. The Senior Bowl, I thought a good decision for me to stick to workouts and get my leg strength up. That’s what I need to do to get better. The Combine, I wasn’t ready to run because I tweaked my quad. I warmed up, but I felt like I was going to pull it. So I thought it was best to wait until today.
Q: When you explain that reasoning to scouts, how do they respond?
CW: They were understanding. They know what I’ve been through. They’re amazed I even played this season.
This story appears in March 30’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only daily digital sports newspaper, sign up today.
On Northwestern’s football Web site, defensive end Corey Wootton calls dealing with injuries his most humbling experience. He now says the ankle, knee and quadriceps problems that plagued him the last year-and-a-half have healed, and he proved it Monday to 29 NFL scouts with a strong performance at the school’s pro day. Wootton spoke with Sporting News‘ Dave Curtis and other reporters after his workout.
Question: How nerve-wracking was this day for you?
Corey Wootton: A little bit. I didn’t participate in the Combine. I didn’t do our last pro day. So I think it was all on the line today. And I think I did a pretty good job. I wish I could have run a little better, but you know, I was looking forward today and did a pretty good job. (Note: Wootton said he was hoping to run in the 4.8-range; Northwestern officials later released that the average of his two 40-yard dashes was 4.92 seconds.)
Q: Have scouts told you what round you should be drafted in?
CW: Not really. We just talk about schemes and where they think I would fit, but nothing about round predictions.
Q: Where do you fit?
CW: Well, some teams want me to line up over the tackle and play an end in a 3-4 scheme. They know I can be a 4-3 end. Some people think I can be a rush linebacker in a 3-4, a standup player. So I was doing some DB drills out there today. But there are three different possibilities for me.
Q: How much linebacker stuff have you ever done?
CW: We’ve done stuff like that here, dropping (into coverage) from down in a stance. It’s something I like to do.
Q: When you’re getting ready to run a 40-yard dash, what goes through your head?
CW: Just thinking, ‘Get out,’ and try to run as fast as I can. And hope for the best.
Q: Is a second-round pick realistic for you?
CW: I’m hoping for it. You always hope for the best. You hope for the first round and that I impressed some people enough to do that. But you never know on draft day. You can go higher than expected, lower than expected. You just have to hope for the best.
Q: What kind of feedback did you get Monday?
CW: They felt like I did a good job without the knee brace because I played with a brace all season. They thought my change of direction was good. And I’m still improving the strength in my legs and trying to get that right. I felt about 90 percent today. So I’ve got 10 percent to go. I’m just looking forward to getting that back.
Q: What are your plans for draft day, April 22?
CW: I’ll be on the couch with my parents in New Jersey. Just hanging out.
Q: How odd has it to be poked and prodded the way you have? I think I saw one guy out there stretching you out.
CW: I expected that. They’re going to make a million-dollar investment in you, so they want to know everything about you, your flexibility and your injuries. I would do the same if I was a head coach or a G.M.
Q: What did you show those people today?
CW: I showed them I’m a lot healthier than I was during the season. I showed I could move around well without the brace and had good change-of-direction. They know I have a little bit left, and I’ll have it back by next season.
Q: Given your history, what kind of health concerns do you have going forward?
CW: I don’t feel I have any. It’s just the strength of the leg. My knee is structurally fine. My ankle is fine. It’s just getting back that strength, and I believe I’ll be ready for next season.
Q: Do you fight a mental block about getting hurt again?
CW: No. I’m past that point. It’s just the strength, and once I get that back I’ll be an even better player than I was when I was healthy two years ago.
Q: Any second thoughts about how you handled the past few months and not playing in the Senior Bowl or running at the Combine?
CW: Not at all. The Senior Bowl, I thought a good decision for me to stick to workouts and get my leg strength up. That’s what I need to do to get better. The Combine, I wasn’t ready to run because I tweaked my quad. I warmed up, but I felt like I was going to pull it. So I thought it was best to wait until today.
Q: When you explain that reasoning to scouts, how do they respond?
CW: They were understanding. They know what I’ve been through. They’re amazed I even played this season.
This story appears in March 30’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only daily digital sports newspaper, sign up today.
In the first year of playing in coach Rex Ryan’s aggressive defensive scheme, outside linebacker Calvin Pace thrived as a pass rusher, recording a team-leading eight sacks. It was also career high for Pace, a former Arizona Cardinal entering his third season in New York. Pace, who turns 30 in October, talked to Sporting News’ Vinnie Iyer about his training regimen, how much fun it is to be a Jet and the team’s fans.
The offseason is as important as the regular season for a veteran like Calvin Pace.
Sporting News: So we hear you’re intense about your offseason training. Just what does that include?
Calvin Pace: It’s crazy. It varies from year to year. A lot of it is rehab. You want to ease your way into it. My goal is to bulk up to help my explosion and power. Some of it involves Olympic-style lifting. As a pass rusher, you want to right combination of a strong upper body and agility.
SN: How critical is it to be well-conditioned going into the grind of an NFL season?
CP: When you’re playing at the highest level, as the years go by, it can get harder to get out of bed. It’s especially challenging on a Monday (after games). Now it’s just getting harder with the schedule with more Thursday games, the quicker turnaround after Sunday. You just have to keep preparing more with your strength and conditioning.
SN: What was the 2009 season like for you?
CP: It’s by far the most fun year I’ve ever had in the NFL. Coach just came in from Day 1 with a great demeanor. We all stayed upbeat, and there was a joking atmosphere. Our goal was the Super Bowl, and it almost came to fruition. How well the defense played spoke for itself. It was good to be aggressive blitzing, and Rex is great in coming up with new blitzes.
SN: What is it like playing alongside inside linebacker Bart Scott?
CP: He’s a really good guy and great player. He’s had a lot of success in the defense, but he doesn’t go around thinking above the rest of us. He does talk a lot–he can go an entire practice and not shut up. I have a blast playing next to him.
SN: On March 4, the Jets traded for San Diego cornerback Antonio Cromartie. What does Cromartie’s addition mean for the defense?
CP: We already have an elite corner in Darrelle Revis, and now teams just can’t pick on the other corner. Cromartie is a hungry player, and he falls in line with your schemes. Putting them together will help us better lock down both receivers and give those of us up front more time to get to the quarterback.
SN: What was it like in the playoffs with the offense coming on strong to help your side of the ball?
CP: It’s funny, because we would think, everyone on defense, that we don’t want to let the offense down. They picked up their play, and in some ways they carried us.
SN: How big of a challenge is it to come back in ’10 and remain a playoff team in the AFC East?
CP: It’s tough. It’s one of the best divisions. It’s very physical on defense, yet at the same time there are some very explosive players, such Ted Ginn, Randy Moss, Wes Welker and Lee Evans. There’s very little dropoff from one team to the next. There is little room for mistakes. To get back to the playoffs, you can’t let up and you have to win on the road.
SN: How has it been playing for the Jets and their fans?
CP: When I signed with the Jets two years ago, I thought about that, and if that would help me do well. The people here are passionate, and you get really excited playing for the tem. That J-E-T-S chant gets you pumped up. It’s 24-hour football for these fans.
SN: What do you like to do when not playing football or training?
CP: Really, I like to do nothing, just be grazing or unwinding. It’s time that you’re supposed take off, slow everything down, so that you can regroup and help you come back stronger for the next season.
SN: How critical is that to help you recharge and refocus?
CP: It’s very important, the less you need to work to handle every season. The window is small to play this game, and I constantly think about what my legacy will be. You want to be a successful player and hopefully a Super Bowl champion. You need to rest your body enough.
This story appears in the March 29 edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only daily digital sports newspaper, sign up today for free.
In the first year of playing in coach Rex Ryan’s aggressive defensive scheme, outside linebacker Calvin Pace thrived as a pass rusher, recording a team-leading eight sacks. It was also career high for Pace, a former Arizona Cardinal entering his third season in New York. Pace, who turns 30 in October, talked to Sporting News’ Vinnie Iyer about his training regimen, how much fun it is to be a Jet and the team’s fans.
The offseason is as important as the regular season for a veteran like Calvin Pace.
Sporting News: So we hear you’re intense about your offseason training. Just what does that include?
Calvin Pace: It’s crazy. It varies from year to year. A lot of it is rehab. You want to ease your way into it. My goal is to bulk up to help my explosion and power. Some of it involves Olympic-style lifting. As a pass rusher, you want to right combination of a strong upper body and agility.
SN: How critical is it to be well-conditioned going into the grind of an NFL season?
CP: When you’re playing at the highest level, as the years go by, it can get harder to get out of bed. It’s especially challenging on a Monday (after games). Now it’s just getting harder with the schedule with more Thursday games, the quicker turnaround after Sunday. You just have to keep preparing more with your strength and conditioning.
SN: What was the 2009 season like for you?
CP: It’s by far the most fun year I’ve ever had in the NFL. Coach just came in from Day 1 with a great demeanor. We all stayed upbeat, and there was a joking atmosphere. Our goal was the Super Bowl, and it almost came to fruition. How well the defense played spoke for itself. It was good to be aggressive blitzing, and Rex is great in coming up with new blitzes.
SN: What is it like playing alongside inside linebacker Bart Scott?
CP: He’s a really good guy and great player. He’s had a lot of success in the defense, but he doesn’t go around thinking above the rest of us. He does talk a lot–he can go an entire practice and not shut up. I have a blast playing next to him.
SN: On March 4, the Jets traded for San Diego cornerback Antonio Cromartie. What does Cromartie’s addition mean for the defense?
CP: We already have an elite corner in Darrelle Revis, and now teams just can’t pick on the other corner. Cromartie is a hungry player, and he falls in line with your schemes. Putting them together will help us better lock down both receivers and give those of us up front more time to get to the quarterback.
SN: What was it like in the playoffs with the offense coming on strong to help your side of the ball?
CP: It’s funny, because we would think, everyone on defense, that we don’t want to let the offense down. They picked up their play, and in some ways they carried us.
SN: How big of a challenge is it to come back in ’10 and remain a playoff team in the AFC East?
CP: It’s tough. It’s one of the best divisions. It’s very physical on defense, yet at the same time there are some very explosive players, such Ted Ginn, Randy Moss, Wes Welker and Lee Evans. There’s very little dropoff from one team to the next. There is little room for mistakes. To get back to the playoffs, you can’t let up and you have to win on the road.
SN: How has it been playing for the Jets and their fans?
CP: When I signed with the Jets two years ago, I thought about that, and if that would help me do well. The people here are passionate, and you get really excited playing for the tem. That J-E-T-S chant gets you pumped up. It’s 24-hour football for these fans.
SN: What do you like to do when not playing football or training?
CP: Really, I like to do nothing, just be grazing or unwinding. It’s time that you’re supposed take off, slow everything down, so that you can regroup and help you come back stronger for the next season.
SN: How critical is that to help you recharge and refocus?
CP: It’s very important, the less you need to work to handle every season. The window is small to play this game, and I constantly think about what my legacy will be. You want to be a successful player and hopefully a Super Bowl champion. You need to rest your body enough.
This story appears in the March 29 edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only daily digital sports newspaper, sign up today for free.
Vinnie Iyer and Russ Lande, Sporting News
In what’s deemed as a shaky 2010 quarterback class, the top prospects each have something to prove in pre-draft examinations the last four weeks:
1. Sam Bradford, Oklahoma. Coming off shoulder surgery, he must prove he can make every NFL-type throw during his pro day Monday. Projection: Rams in Round 1.
2. Jimmy Clausen, Notre Dame. Recovering from two torn ligaments in his right big toe, he must show good footwork and mobility during his April 9 workout. In interviews, he must prove he can be a good teammate and leader. Projection: Vikings in Round 1.
3. Tony Pike, Cincinnati. Past his pro day and now in meetings and private workouts, Pike must convince teams that he has the greatest potential despite lack of pedigree. Projection: Redskins in Round 2.
4. Tim Tebow, Florida. Arm strength and motion remain big concerns, but work ethic, desire and intangibles can’t be ignored. Projection: Browns in Round 3
This story first appeared in March 25’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only daily digital sports newspaper, sign up today for free.
Vinnie Iyer and Russ Lande, Sporting News
In what’s deemed as a shaky 2010 quarterback class, the top prospects each have something to prove in pre-draft examinations the last four weeks:
1. Sam Bradford, Oklahoma. Coming off shoulder surgery, he must prove he can make every NFL-type throw during his pro day Monday. Projection: Rams in Round 1.
2. Jimmy Clausen, Notre Dame. Recovering from two torn ligaments in his right big toe, he must show good footwork and mobility during his April 9 workout. In interviews, he must prove he can be a good teammate and leader. Projection: Vikings in Round 1.
3. Tony Pike, Cincinnati. Past his pro day and now in meetings and private workouts, Pike must convince teams that he has the greatest potential despite lack of pedigree. Projection: Redskins in Round 2.
4. Tim Tebow, Florida. Arm strength and motion remain big concerns, but work ethic, desire and intangibles can’t be ignored. Projection: Browns in Round 3
This story first appeared in March 25’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only daily digital sports newspaper, sign up today for free.
Mike Shanahan is starting a new phase in his career, taking the helm of the Washington Redskins after a year away from coaching. The two-time Super Bowl winner with the Denver Broncos joined ESPN Chicago to talk about the upcoming football season.
To listen to Mike Shanahan on ESPN Chicago, go to Sports Radio Interviews.
Washington Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan says the NFL does a good job of making small changes every year.
What does Shanahan think of the new playoffs overtime rule?
Shanahan: Well, number one, over the years being in these meetings, if the commissioner and the owners really believe a rule is in the best interest of the league, they’re going to get it passed. A lot of times they’ll table it until May, if they don’t feel something is going to go through that they really want.
This is a situation that I felt they were very up front about, knew the commissioner wanted it, there was a number of owners that wanted it, and they just put it through a little bit earlier than they normally do.
Is he in favor of the new rule?
Shanahan: Yeah, I don’t mind it. I don’t think there is a perfect way to solve this problem that we have. I was looking forward to doing something. I didn’t know, exactly, what was the best situation. I think this is a good start for the league.
Would Shanahan like the new overtime rule added for the regular season, too?
Shanahan: I would like it for the regular season as well as the playoffs. Some people just want it just for the playoffs because they don’t want the additional snaps added to the game, because of injury. The way I look at it, if you use it through the playoffs, you might as well use it during the regular season, but either way I think it’s a good first step.
Are coaches more apt to kick off in overtime under the new rule, or will coaches still always want the football?
Shanahan: I think it could go either way. A lot depends on the wind, what type of defense you have, what type of offense. Obviously, if you score, you score a touchdown, the game is over with. So I think, ultimately, with a good offense, you believe you can score and end the game right then and there.
Also depends on your field goal kicker and how good he is. So I think there are some variables in there that could go either way.
Are there any other changes he would like to see the owners vote on and pass?
Shanahan: I’ve been doing this, been in these meetings for a number of years and what I think they try and do is upgrade the game every year. The competition committee, number of people on that, they hear different recommendations from different organizations, and every year they’ll bring up about ten different new things, if it’s rule interpretation, if it’s changing of rules. I think that’s the reason our game keeps on getting better as we do change little things every year.
How did Shanahan spend the year off from football?
Shanahan: One thing, I think, if you want to stay in this game, or you want to be good in any profession, you better be constantly learning. But it was something that I’ve never had the opportunity to do in a long time, 25 years. I actually had a chance to go to a couple of pro camps and see how they did things. Two organizations that have been very successful over the years and that was a good experience for me to see how different people do things at Pittsburgh and New England.
Then I went back to my stomping grounds when I coached ’80-’83 for the Florida Gators. I went out there to watch their practice. Obviously, with them winning a couple national championships, I wanted to see how Urban [Meyer] was running his practices and hadn’t had a chance to see a college practice for a number of years, so that was quite interesting.
Does he think Tim Tebow’s skill set will play in the NFL?
Shanahan: I just think Tim Tebow is a winner. He is going to make it. In fact, worked him out on Saturday. You’re talking about a great kid. He’s going to find a way to get it done.
I just think he just brings so many tangibles to the table that he’s going to find a way to do it and I think that he can do it in a number of different ways. He can run that Wildcat. I think regardless what offense you’re running, he will spend the time that is necessary to work at it and eventually get it done.
What does Shanahan think about the Bears acquiring Jay Cutler?
Shanahan: First off, I’m a Jay Cutler fan. I can just talk about what Jay Cutler did for Mike Shanahan, not exactly his experience in Chicago.
But Pro Bowl player, had a good supporting cast around him, a worker, very smart, handles himself like you want. I thought he was just getting better and better.
Obviously, there are going to be some road blocks for every quarterback in the league and he’s going through a tough situation right now, but my opinion is he’ll work through it and Chicago will be very proud to have him as their quarterback.
More from SRI
Bruce Pearl compares Evan Turner to Kobe Bryant
Oklahoma City Thunder general manager Sam Presti talks about his team
Mike Shanahan is starting a new phase in his career, taking the helm of the Washington Redskins after a year away from coaching. The two-time Super Bowl winner with the Denver Broncos joined ESPN Chicago to talk about the upcoming football season.
To listen to Mike Shanahan on ESPN Chicago, go to Sports Radio Interviews.
Washington Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan says the NFL does a good job of making small changes every year.
What does Shanahan think of the new playoffs overtime rule?
Shanahan: Well, number one, over the years being in these meetings, if the commissioner and the owners really believe a rule is in the best interest of the league, they’re going to get it passed. A lot of times they’ll table it until May, if they don’t feel something is going to go through that they really want.
This is a situation that I felt they were very up front about, knew the commissioner wanted it, there was a number of owners that wanted it, and they just put it through a little bit earlier than they normally do.
Is he in favor of the new rule?
Shanahan: Yeah, I don’t mind it. I don’t think there is a perfect way to solve this problem that we have. I was looking forward to doing something. I didn’t know, exactly, what was the best situation. I think this is a good start for the league.
Would Shanahan like the new overtime rule added for the regular season, too?
Shanahan: I would like it for the regular season as well as the playoffs. Some people just want it just for the playoffs because they don’t want the additional snaps added to the game, because of injury. The way I look at it, if you use it through the playoffs, you might as well use it during the regular season, but either way I think it’s a good first step.
Are coaches more apt to kick off in overtime under the new rule, or will coaches still always want the football?
Shanahan: I think it could go either way. A lot depends on the wind, what type of defense you have, what type of offense. Obviously, if you score, you score a touchdown, the game is over with. So I think, ultimately, with a good offense, you believe you can score and end the game right then and there.
Also depends on your field goal kicker and how good he is. So I think there are some variables in there that could go either way.
Are there any other changes he would like to see the owners vote on and pass?
Shanahan: I’ve been doing this, been in these meetings for a number of years and what I think they try and do is upgrade the game every year. The competition committee, number of people on that, they hear different recommendations from different organizations, and every year they’ll bring up about ten different new things, if it’s rule interpretation, if it’s changing of rules. I think that’s the reason our game keeps on getting better as we do change little things every year.
How did Shanahan spend the year off from football?
Shanahan: One thing, I think, if you want to stay in this game, or you want to be good in any profession, you better be constantly learning. But it was something that I’ve never had the opportunity to do in a long time, 25 years. I actually had a chance to go to a couple of pro camps and see how they did things. Two organizations that have been very successful over the years and that was a good experience for me to see how different people do things at Pittsburgh and New England.
Then I went back to my stomping grounds when I coached ’80-’83 for the Florida Gators. I went out there to watch their practice. Obviously, with them winning a couple national championships, I wanted to see how Urban [Meyer] was running his practices and hadn’t had a chance to see a college practice for a number of years, so that was quite interesting.
Does he think Tim Tebow’s skill set will play in the NFL?
Shanahan: I just think Tim Tebow is a winner. He is going to make it. In fact, worked him out on Saturday. You’re talking about a great kid. He’s going to find a way to get it done.
I just think he just brings so many tangibles to the table that he’s going to find a way to do it and I think that he can do it in a number of different ways. He can run that Wildcat. I think regardless what offense you’re running, he will spend the time that is necessary to work at it and eventually get it done.
What does Shanahan think about the Bears acquiring Jay Cutler?
Shanahan: First off, I’m a Jay Cutler fan. I can just talk about what Jay Cutler did for Mike Shanahan, not exactly his experience in Chicago.
But Pro Bowl player, had a good supporting cast around him, a worker, very smart, handles himself like you want. I thought he was just getting better and better.
Obviously, there are going to be some road blocks for every quarterback in the league and he’s going through a tough situation right now, but my opinion is he’ll work through it and Chicago will be very proud to have him as their quarterback.
More from SRI
Bruce Pearl compares Evan Turner to Kobe Bryant
Oklahoma City Thunder general manager Sam Presti talks about his team
Joe Girardi has named Phil Hughes the Yankees’ fifth start, the New York Post reports.
Hughes has been competing for the rotation slot with Joba Chamberlain, Sergio Mitre and Alfredo Aceves.
"We evaluated it the whole spring and we were very excited with the improvement in his changeup," Girardi said.
The decision means Chamberlain will move back into the bullpen, where he likely will the eighth inning set-up man, the Post reports.
"I think Joba could do either one (start or relieve), but right now we feel Phil is a little bit ahead as a starter," Girardi said.
Hughes was 8-3 with a 3.03 ERA, mostl in relief, while Chamberlian was 9-6 with a 4.75 ERA in 2009. Chamberlain started 31 games.
Joe Girardi has named Phil Hughes the Yankees’ fifth start, the New York Post reports.
Hughes has been competing for the rotation slot with Joba Chamberlain, Sergio Mitre and Alfredo Aceves.
"We evaluated it the whole spring and we were very excited with the improvement in his changeup," Girardi said.
The decision means Chamberlain will move back into the bullpen, where he likely will the eighth inning set-up man, the Post reports.
"I think Joba could do either one (start or relieve), but right now we feel Phil is a little bit ahead as a starter," Girardi said.
Hughes was 8-3 with a 3.03 ERA, mostl in relief, while Chamberlian was 9-6 with a 4.75 ERA in 2009. Chamberlain started 31 games.
Stan McNeal, Sporting News
Signed as a free agent this offseason, new Giants left fielder Mark DeRosa recently spoke with Sporting News’ Stan McNeal about his new team:
‘What I really like is our pitching,’ new Giant Mark DeRosa says.
I’ve always liked the vibe of the ballpark and the city and felt it would be a cool place to play and an interesting place to bring my family.
What I really like is our pitching. We have the kind of staff that if we get into the playoffs, we will be tough to beat. You’ve got the two-headed monster with Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain and a guy in Brian Wilson to come in and throw 100 mph in the ninth.
I read all the stuff on the Internet about how we need more offense. I like what we’ve done this offseason. Aubrey Huff, who signed in January, has been a good hitter for most of his career. I feel like I’m capable of doing some things offensively.
Sometimes it’s not about changes but about getting production from the guys you already have. Aaron Rowand, Edgar Renteria and Freddy Sanchez all are capable of having big years. I don’t know if they’d tell you, but they all played injured last season. With the Panda, Pablo Sandoval, we’ve got a big bat in the lineup, too.
Bruce Bochy told me he wanted to see how team chemistry developed before he decided where to play me. I assume I’m going to be in left field. I’ll play anywhere. My goal is help this team get to October.
This story first appeared in Sporting News magazine. If you are not receiving the magazine, subscribe today, or pick up a copy, available at most Barnes & Noble, Borders and Hudson Retail outlets.
Stan McNeal, Sporting News
Signed as a free agent this offseason, new Giants left fielder Mark DeRosa recently spoke with Sporting News’ Stan McNeal about his new team:
‘What I really like is our pitching,’ new Giant Mark DeRosa says.
I’ve always liked the vibe of the ballpark and the city and felt it would be a cool place to play and an interesting place to bring my family.
What I really like is our pitching. We have the kind of staff that if we get into the playoffs, we will be tough to beat. You’ve got the two-headed monster with Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain and a guy in Brian Wilson to come in and throw 100 mph in the ninth.
I read all the stuff on the Internet about how we need more offense. I like what we’ve done this offseason. Aubrey Huff, who signed in January, has been a good hitter for most of his career. I feel like I’m capable of doing some things offensively.
Sometimes it’s not about changes but about getting production from the guys you already have. Aaron Rowand, Edgar Renteria and Freddy Sanchez all are capable of having big years. I don’t know if they’d tell you, but they all played injured last season. With the Panda, Pablo Sandoval, we’ve got a big bat in the lineup, too.
Bruce Bochy told me he wanted to see how team chemistry developed before he decided where to play me. I assume I’m going to be in left field. I’ll play anywhere. My goal is help this team get to October.
This story first appeared in Sporting News magazine. If you are not receiving the magazine, subscribe today, or pick up a copy, available at most Barnes & Noble, Borders and Hudson Retail outlets.
Sporting News staff reports
The Minneapolis Star-Tribune confirmed the Twins have scouted Padres closer Heath Bell as a possible replacement for Joe Nathan, who could be facing season-ending Tommy John surgery.
The newspaper noted the team likely has compiled a list of possible trade targets to fill its closer void, but it first will focus on in-house candidates. Those include Jon Rauch, Matt Guerrier and Jose Mijares.
Nathan was expected to test his elbow with a throwing session this weekend.
Sporting News staff reports
The Minneapolis Star-Tribune confirmed the Twins have scouted Padres closer Heath Bell as a possible replacement for Joe Nathan, who could be facing season-ending Tommy John surgery.
The newspaper noted the team likely has compiled a list of possible trade targets to fill its closer void, but it first will focus on in-house candidates. Those include Jon Rauch, Matt Guerrier and Jose Mijares.
Nathan was expected to test his elbow with a throwing session this weekend.
Sporting News staff reports
The Chicago Tribune speculated the Cubs’ window of opportunity could be closing, meaning the team could have a different look in 2011.
Manager Lou Piniella is in the final year of his contract, as are first baseman Derrek Lee and left-hander Ted Lilly. In addition, key core player such as left fielder Alfonso Soriano, third baseman Aramis Ramirez and right-hander Ryan Dempster are in their 30s and coming off injuries in 2009.
"I don’t think you ever think about anything like that," Lee told the newspaper. "You only worry about winning games. All the other stuff takes care of itself."
Sporting News staff reports
The Chicago Tribune speculated the Cubs’ window of opportunity could be closing, meaning the team could have a different look in 2011.
Manager Lou Piniella is in the final year of his contract, as are first baseman Derrek Lee and left-hander Ted Lilly. In addition, key core player such as left fielder Alfonso Soriano, third baseman Aramis Ramirez and right-hander Ryan Dempster are in their 30s and coming off injuries in 2009.
"I don’t think you ever think about anything like that," Lee told the newspaper. "You only worry about winning games. All the other stuff takes care of itself."
Sporting News staff reports
Nationals rookie righthander Stephen Strasburg will begin the season at Class AA Harrisburg, according to team’s website. He was optioned there this morning.
General manager Mike Rizzo told the website that he doesn’t like to rush pitching prospects. In addition, the Nationals want Strasburg to work on holding runners on, fielding bunts and pitch selection.
"I try to get as much information from the coaches and players that I can. It will make me a better ballplayer and help this team win some ballgames," Strasburg told the website Friday. "I’ve been able to make some adjustments working with (pitching coach) Steve McCatty in the bullpen.
"I try to throw as many pitches as I can — starting in the strike zone to force contact and not nibble. I just have been really trying to work hard and I’ve been able to have a little bit of success here so far."
In his final Grapefruit League start Friday, Strasburg allowed two solo homers in the first inning but struck out eight Cardinals over four innings. In three starts this spring, Strasburg posted a 2.00 ERA with 12 strikeouts in nine innings.
Rookie reliever Drew Storen, selected No. 10 overall in the 2009 draft, also was optioned to Class AA by Washington on Saturday.
Sporting News staff reports
Nationals rookie righthander Stephen Strasburg will begin the season at Class AA Harrisburg, according to team’s website. He was optioned there this morning.
General manager Mike Rizzo told the website that he doesn’t like to rush pitching prospects. In addition, the Nationals want Strasburg to work on holding runners on, fielding bunts and pitch selection.
"I try to get as much information from the coaches and players that I can. It will make me a better ballplayer and help this team win some ballgames," Strasburg told the website Friday. "I’ve been able to make some adjustments working with (pitching coach) Steve McCatty in the bullpen.
"I try to throw as many pitches as I can — starting in the strike zone to force contact and not nibble. I just have been really trying to work hard and I’ve been able to have a little bit of success here so far."
In his final Grapefruit League start Friday, Strasburg allowed two solo homers in the first inning but struck out eight Cardinals over four innings. In three starts this spring, Strasburg posted a 2.00 ERA with 12 strikeouts in nine innings.
Rookie reliever Drew Storen, selected No. 10 overall in the 2009 draft, also was optioned to Class AA by Washington on Saturday.
Sporting News staff reports
Nationals first baseman Adam Dunn is willing to continue contract discussions during the season, but he doesn’t want the talks to go on all summer.
Dunn, who can be a free agent after the season, tells MLB.com there’s no hard deadline to complete an extension. He earlier said he wanted to get a deal done by opening day.
"There is progress being made, but I don’t want any distractions during the season. When (the trade deadline) comes around, my name gets thrown around. I hate that," the Web site quotes Dunn as saying.
"If we are close to getting something done and it drags on for a couple of weeks into the season, OK. But I don’t want it to drag on until the All-Star break or things like that. We’ll just pick it up again (after the season)."
Washington general manager Mike Rizzo tells the Mid-Atlantic Sports Network that he and Dunn’s agent, Greg Genske, have been talking since the start of spring training. Rizzo also is fine with negotiations extending into the season.
"I hate to put any date restrictions on anything, because I don’t want to rush anything. I don’t want him to feel rushed, and we don’t want to feel rushed," Rizzo told the network’s Web site. "If there’s a deal to be done here, we certainly have both sides that are willing participants."
Dunn is in the final season of a two-year, $20 million contract. He is due to make $12 million this year.
Sporting News staff reports
Nationals first baseman Adam Dunn is willing to continue contract discussions during the season, but he doesn’t want the talks to go on all summer.
Dunn, who can be a free agent after the season, tells MLB.com there’s no hard deadline to complete an extension. He earlier said he wanted to get a deal done by opening day.
"There is progress being made, but I don’t want any distractions during the season. When (the trade deadline) comes around, my name gets thrown around. I hate that," the Web site quotes Dunn as saying.
"If we are close to getting something done and it drags on for a couple of weeks into the season, OK. But I don’t want it to drag on until the All-Star break or things like that. We’ll just pick it up again (after the season)."
Washington general manager Mike Rizzo tells the Mid-Atlantic Sports Network that he and Dunn’s agent, Greg Genske, have been talking since the start of spring training. Rizzo also is fine with negotiations extending into the season.
"I hate to put any date restrictions on anything, because I don’t want to rush anything. I don’t want him to feel rushed, and we don’t want to feel rushed," Rizzo told the network’s Web site. "If there’s a deal to be done here, we certainly have both sides that are willing participants."
Dunn is in the final season of a two-year, $20 million contract. He is due to make $12 million this year.
