Alessandro Maestri: Already on Sunday Italian reliever Alessandro Maestri got a chance to pitch in a Cactus League game for the Chicago Cubs. He came into the game against the Cincinnati Reds in the bottom of the tenth, allowing a double and a walk, while keeping the zero on the scoreboard. It was Maestri’s first game this spring and the second overall, after having pitched an inning one year ago. The Cesena-native had a 4-2 record with an ERA of 3.69 in 54 games last season for the Double-A team of the Cubs.
Roger Bernadina: Nationals outfielder Roger Bernadina came in as a pinch runner for Adam Dunn on Monday against the Mets and finished the game playing left field. On Sunday Washington Post’s Adam Kilgore reported on his blog that Bernadina definitely is in the mix for the open spot in right field. Willie Harris, Mike Morse and Justin Maxwell are his “opponents”. Kilgore also says that Bernadina altered his swing last week. Let’s see, if it also improves his numbers.
Jair Jurrjens: With the rainout on Sunday, Jair Jurrjens was pushed back a day and had to pitch in a Minor League game. Taking the mound for the Triple-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves, the right-hander allowed two runs on five hits in four innings. He struck out three and walked none, but also hit two batters. He threw 55 pitches.