Ho-hum, just another beautiful day here in the Valley of the Sun.  Today’s high was 76 and there wasn’t a cloud in the sky.  I started the day at the minor league complex and watched a pitcher’s defensive drill where a second pitcher stands in front of the other and tries to screen him from fielding a comeback ground ball.  It seemed like they were having way too much fun during that exercise.  There was also defensive practice for all players on balls hit to the outfield.  From there I went up to the major league side and had a chance to talk with Brandon Wood.  He says everything is good right now and is looking forward to breaking camp as the Angels’ starting third baseman.  I talked with Halos’ bench coach Ron Roenicke and he was very pleased with the way Brandon has handled himself this spring.

I had a real treat in store for me after a press box lunch.  Fresno Grizzlies’ broadcaster Doug Greenwald introduced me to legenday Giants and ESPN broadcaster Jon Miller.  Miller was delightful to talke with as we swapped a few stories.

The day concluded back at the minor league fields as the AAA squad, which is made up of players who will either be with the Bees or are trying to earn a spot in Salt Lake City, played Iowa.  The I-Cubs are going to managed this season by Hall of Fame second baseman Ryne Sandberg. Matt Palmer made the start for the Bees to get some work in before beginning the season with the Angels. Former Bee Nick Gorneault had a couple of hits and former Portland Beaver and San Diego Padre Paul McAnulty, who is one of those looking to make the team, belted a three run homer.  I had a chance to catch up with former Bees pitcher Jason Bulger, who was one of many current or former Salt Lake players to get engaged this off-season.

I also talked with pitcher Gabe DeHoyos, who trying to earn a roster spot.  He says its a tight competition with five pitchers battling for just one roster position.

Steve Klauke

Whew…that was a looooonnnnggg offseason and not enough BeesWax. So if you’ve missed your BeesWax like we have, you’re in luck. The entries have returned has we head down to Spring Training this weekend and continue preparations for the upcoming 2010 season. We’ll give you some insight on potential Bees players and update you on the Angels happenings firsthand. Stay tuned for a long weekend of Spring Training updates!

It won’t be long now….