INSIDE PITCH

Posted on 2010 under Braves | Comments are off

8 Mar

Sure, it's fun to write about the Braves installing netting at their spring training ballpark to protect players' cars in the right field parking lot from the bombs launched by right field prospect Jason Heyward. It's amazing to hear manager Bobby Cox say that the sound off Heyward's bat reminds him of only one other player's: the sound Hank Aaron's bat made when it made contact. Even opposing media break out superlatives, the Mets' Keith Hernandez, for example, calling a right field line drive a "Willie McCovey shot." Whew! Really, though, the most exciting things about Heyward are the little moves he's making. Working the count for walks. Taking second base on a ball in the dirt, something he did twice in his second spring training game, March 3 against the Mets. And there's his speed, which he showed off on a stolen base in the same game. Heyward's plate discipline, though, is the thing getting the most notice by Cox. Yes, it's early. How disciplined will he be when he faces the better pitchers, and they're in the game for more than the two innings they're pitching to start out? But if Heyward's general demeanor is a guide, he should have no problem rushing things. He has said repeatedly that he'll take whatever comes. He feels no pressure, despite the early attention. The organization half-heartedly tried to shield Heyward from outside expectations, saying early on that he would be given every opportunity to show what he could do but it wouldn't be the worst thing if he started the season at Class AAA for some seasoning. No one is saying that now. Not since he began hitting balls over the right field wall without even trying. No, now everyone is saying they will be shocked if Heyward isn't on the Braves' opening-day roster. WHERE: Champion Stadium, Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Wondering why Braves players don't cheer as much when a home run goes over the right field wall here? Because that's where their cars are parked. Many windows have been replaced since the Braves took up residence here in 1998. AUTHORITY FIGURES: Manager Bobby Cox (career record 2,334-1,847, Atlanta record 2,058-1,637), entering his 29th season, his 21st consecutive season with the Braves. Cox also managed the Braves from 1978-81 and the Blue Jays from 1983-85. Cox is hoping he can get through his final season as a major league manager without receiving any rocking chairs in opposing stadiums. His entire staff returns, and that consistency from the top continues to keep the Braves in the postseason hunt season after season: bench coach Chino Cadahia, pitching coach Roger McDowell, hitting coach Terry Pendleton, first base coach Glenn Hubbard, third base coach Brian Snitker and bullpen coach Eddie Perez. All of them are no doubt wondering whether every day will be an audition for the Braves' managerial job.