A short look at the performances of some European players in Major League spring training, including some reading material for a cold European afternoon.
Roger Bernadina: One week into the exhibition schedule of Major League spring training outfielder Roger Bernadina of the Washington Nationals is making his case for a starting role with his team. Through three appearances he is 4-for-7 with a homerun and four RBI.
Shairon Martis: Right-handed pitcher Shairon Martis who got removed from the 40-man roster of the Washington Nationals this winter, made one relief appearance so far, allowing two unearned runs on three hits in one inning of work.
Jair Jurrjens: Right-handed pitcher Jair Jurrjens who had an injury-plagued season last year already started twice for the Atlanta Braves this spring. In five innings he allowed two runs on five hits, while striking out two.
Rick van den Hurk: Eindhoven native Rick van den Hurk who is fighting for a spot on the pitching staff of the Baltimore Orioles, made one appearance so far, issuing one run on two hits in two innings, while giving up a walk.
Gregory Halman: Dutch outfielder Gregory Halman has a shot of making the big league roster this spring with the Seattle Mariners. So far he is batting 2-for-9 with a homerun and two RBI. He struck out four times.
Alex Liddi: Italian third baseman Alex Liddi also already got into Cactus League action with the Seattle Mariners. In two games he went 1-for-3 with a run and two strikeouts. He was added to the 40-man roster this winter.
Kenley Jansen: Right-handed pitcher Kenley Jansen who debuted for the Los Angeles Dodgers in the MLB last summer, appeared in two games so far. He allowed two hits and two walks in two scoreless innings, striking out two.
Loek van Mil: Traded to the Los Angeles Angels right-handed pitcher Loek van Mil hasn’t made an appearance yet, but already got featured in an article.
Kai Gronauer: German catcher Kai Gronauer is profiting right now from the absence of Ronny Paulino in camp, who has visa troubles. Gronauer already picked up an at-bat in an official Grapefruit League game, doubled in an intrasquad game and played against a college squad. He also most likely is going to face Team Italy on Saturday morning in Port St. Lucie together with a bunch of other Minor Leaguers.
Mike Nickeas: Also taking advantage of the missing Ronny Paulino, British National Team catcher Mike Nickeas is making his case to start the year as the big league backup. In three games so far he is going 2-for-8 with two runs and two strikeouts.
Tom Boleska: Another British national teamer is in the Pittsburgh Pirates training camp. Right-hander Tom Boleska appeared in two games so far, getting two outs, while allowing one hit.