Kai Gronauer: The German national team catcher Kai Gronauer, who somewhat surprisingly was invited to the big league camp of the New York Mets two weeks ago, made his Grapefruit League debut on Friday. Starting as designated hitter he went 1-for-2 in a 3-4 ten-inning loss against the Florida Marlins. His lone hit was a groundball single into leftfield. Gronauer played for the Savannah Sand Gnats (Single-A) in the South Atlantic League last year.
Roger Bernadina: Outfielder Roger Bernadina started in leftfield and as leadoff hitter for the Washington Nationals on Friday against the Atlanta Braves, going 1-for-3 with a walk and a strikeout. Willy Taveras replaced him later in the game.
Hainley Statia: The shortstop Hainley Statia came in for Howie Kendrick and went hitless in his lone at-bat on Friday. He showed off his glove during a 4-6-3 double play. The Angels lost the game 5-7 against the Rockies.
Gregory Halman: The Mariners lost 3-9 to the Padres on Friday mainly thanks to an eight-run third inning. Gregory Halman started in center field, but didn’t get a hit in each of his two at-bats, striking out once.
Loek van Mil: Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said after yesterday’s game against the Red Sox that Loek van Mil threw one pitch in a bullpen session before realizing that he needs another MRI on his troublesome shoulder.
