Spring Headlines: Albert Pujols returning early, will DH on Sunday
The Los Angeles Angels revealed some encouraging news on Friday. Veteran slugger Albert Pujols is recovering quicker than expected from November surgery on his left foot, and according to MLB.com’s Alden Gonzalez is on track to start Sunday’s Cactus League game as the designated hitter.
Based on previous reports, the Angels were not expecting Pujols to appear in any games until mid-to-late March, so he’s at least 10-14 days ahead of schedule. That would also comfortably put him on track for opening day, which was considered highly questionable even as camp opened.
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Of course, this is all barring a setback, and we already know the Angels will be extra cautious. That’s because Pujols is such an integral part of their lineup. In fact, aside from Mike Trout, he’s about the only proven offensive commodity, or at least the only who’s proven consistent throughout his career.
Pujols showed last season that he’s still capable of producing big numbers when he’s feeling good, cranking out 40 homers after hitting 45 combined in the previous two seasons. If the Angels can get 145-150 healthy and productive games from him this season, they’ll be in a much better position to contend. For now though, it will be one step, one day and one game at a time as they evaluate his recovery.
OTHER SPRING HEADLINES
The end: Veteran infielder Maicer Izturis has retired after 11 seasons in the big leagues. [Sportsnets]
Last man standing: As a result of Iztruis’ retirement, Bartolo Colon is now the last player remaining who played for the Montreal Expos. [The Stew]
Power needed: The White Sox are still looking for a left-handed power hitter and have recently asked about Jay Bruce and Carlos Gonzalez. [CBS Chicago]
Pay raise: The Cubs finalized the last of their player contracts on Friday, including rewarding Rookie of the Year Kris Bryant with a $652,000 salary. That helped push Chicago’s payroll over $150 million for the first time ever. [Chicago Sun Times]
Season preview: Will the Rockies finally find some direction in 2016? [The Stew]
Scratched: Billy Hamilton was scratched from Friday’s lineup as he continues dealing with soreness in his surgically-repaired shoulder. [@ctrent]
Welcome aboard: Veteran left-hander Franklin Morales has a minor-league deal with the Brewers. [@Ken_Rosenthal]
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Mark Townsend is a writer for Big League Stew on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Townie813
