2008 Spring Training Random Ramblings.

[Porter]

Post any random thoughts on spring training.

[Porter]

Felix Hernandez allows 2 HRs, but Mariners beat Brewers 5-2

PHOENIX (AP)—Felix Hernandez had no choice but to challenge Ryan Braun.

Behind in the count to last year’s NL Rookie of the Year in the second inning, Hernandez threw Braun a mid-90s fastball. The pitcher never bothered turning to watch the flight of the ball.

“For what?” Hernandez said. “I saw that ball coming off the bat. I knew where it was going.”

Braun’s monster home run clanged loudly more than halfway up the towering batter’s eye in center field, but the Milwaukee Brewers lost to the Seattle Mariners 5-2 on Thursday.

Braun, who had 34 homers in 113 games last year after his May 25 debut, said he wasn’t trying to hit it over the batter’s eye, even though he got close.

“Nice, huh?” said Braun, who called Hernandez the best pitcher he’s ever faced. “It’s fun to compete against like that early on in spring training.”

Hernandez also allowed a solo home run to Rickie Weeks in the third inning, but the Mariners need not worry about their electric right-hander even after his impressive campaign last year was derailed by a strained elbow that sent him to the DL for over four weeks.

Hernandez is still prone to the gopher ball but Braun should be happy its only spring.

[browntown653]

Braun is such a freak, I love him.

[ljshorty89]

We all know how you feel about the Hebrew Hammer, Brownie...

[Porter]

Felix wont have to see him until maybe the All-Star Game. When that time comes we will see if he places one 450 feet away.

[brewersfan19]

I hope Braun can play some LF. He is a tough hitter though.

[Porter]

Matt Garza only allowed 1 hit in 3 IP vs the Yanks today. Very solid start for the youngster.

John Parrish struck out 7 batters in 3 innings pitched in a 4-3 over Detroit.

Another note. Los Angeles Dodgers 20, St Louis Rams 6. er Cards.

[BronxBomberz]

Garza looked good