Los Angeles Dodgers pitchers and catchers got underway on Saturday with Brett Anderson, Zach Lee and Clayton Kershaw among those to throw their first bullpen session of Spring Training.
Pitchers are currently throwing on an every-other-day schedule, which is customary during the early stages of camp. Of the hurlers with the Dodgers this spring, Kenta Maeda arguably comes with the most interest.
The Japanese native reported to Camelback Ranch earlier last week and threw a bullpen session with Yasmani Grandal catching.
Maeda signed an eight-year, $25 million contract that’s loaded with incentives which can ultimately bring the total value of the deal just shy of $100 million.
Along with Pedro Baez, Scott Kazmir, Ian Thomas and several others, Maeda toed the rubber on a backfield at Camelback Ranch on Sunday for his first bullpen session.
Video of the 27 year old throwing is provided by Jorge L. Ortiz of USA TODAY Sports:
First bullpen session for Dodgers' latest Japanese import, Kenta Maeda. pic.twitter.com/JX6pkuKaBk
— Jorge L. Ortiz (@jorgelortiz) February 21, 2016
The next six weeks figure to prove crucial for Maeda adjusting to the rigors that come with pitching in the Majors. Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said the club is providing information to aid the process, but that Maeda will need to determine what routine(s) best suit him.
