http://www.tcpalm.com/tcp/pro_baseball/art...4500781,00.html

By ERIC PFAHLER

eric.pfahler@scripps.com

February 28, 2006

JUPITER — With so many positions up for grabs, Florida Marlins manager Joe Girardi is preaching versatility.

 

The Marlins have just six outfielders in camp, Girardi is hoping someone else can perform back there. Out of those six, two are non-roster invitees.

 

"We're talking about maybe carrying 12 pitchers," Girardi said. "Guys have to be versatile."

 

The extra pitcher would mean one less spot among position players.

 

All three outfield spots are open, though rookie Jeremy Hermida has the edge for the right fielder's slot. But beyond that, the other two spots are open.

 

Josh Willingham has been talked about as an outfielder earlier in his career, though he has worked out extensively as a catcher. Third baseman Miguel Cabrera has extensive experience in the outfield.

 

Another position that is open is the shortstop spot. Girardi said he has seen positives from both Hanley Ramirez and Robert Andino.

 

"(They are) two really gifted athletes that are fundamentally sound," Girardi said. "They're a little bit different type of hitters. Hanley has a little bit more pop. Robert's probably more of a hit-and-run type of guy."

 

Both have youth on their side with Ramirez just 22 and Andino about to turn 22 in April.

 

POKING AROUND: Pokey Reese could be the experienced option at shortstop. He has played second base and could be a candidate for time in the outfield because of his defensive talent, Girardi said.

 

"I think you can put Pokey anywhere," Girardi said.

I hope to god Joe isn't thinking of putting Pokey in LF.

I hope that means he realizes that Lenny doesn't exactly suit his needs.

I hope to god Joe isn't thinking of putting Pokey in LF.

 

 

I would laugh that off, but if Womack can play in the OF....... god forbid. I hope he just meant the middle infield.

I kinda read that as Reese being looked at as a backup, a utilityman.

I kinda read that as Reese being looked at as a backup, a utilityman.

 

Damn, and reading comp is supposedly a strong suit for me.

I kinda read that as Reese being looked at as a backup, a utilityman.

 

Damn, and reading comp is supposedly a strong suit for me.

Don't worry, I thought the same thing you did.

 

UF!

 

:plain

12 pitchers................................Joe, say it ain't so!

Is that Harvey kid in camp? I know he still has a ways to go, but just curious...

 

And where is an official list of players in camp? (or direct me to the post in the forums that has it).

GO to MLB, see 40-man roster, then see NRI's. NRI's aren't just AAAA players signed over the off-season, they're blue chip prospects called up to train with the big boys too. Also, teams regularly call players up from their minor league camp to particpate in drills and games.