spring training


Pirates have dark horse in reliever Ryan Beckman

BRADENTON, Fla. — Ryan Beckman is looking to build on last year’s comeback season with a little help from his Pittsburgh Pirates organization. The right-hander spent the entire 2012 season rehabbing after undergoing Tommy John surgery. He was fortunate enough to be able to rehab with a few major leaguers, most notably Charlie Morton, who underwent the same exact surgery at the same time as Beckman.


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Pirates’ farmhand Crumlich looks for consistency

BRADENTON, Fla. — Looking to continue to move up the ladder, Pittsburgh Pirates farmhand D.J. Crumlich understands that consistency is the key to his success. After a successful campaign at the University of California Irvine campus, the middle infielder was a short-season New York-Penn League all-star and his team’s MVP award winner. After two promotions last season, he hopes to progress and carry over his momentum into this year.



Dwight Smith Jr. gives Jays another strong prospect

DUNEDIN, Fla. — Fans of the Toronto Blue Jays have high expectations for their team, and after a disappointing season last year they can take heart that youngsters in their system should provide a bright light on the horizon. Outfielder Dwight Smith Jr. is one such prospect that fans can look forward to cracking the major-league lineup for their scrutinizing pleasure in a couple years time.