Earlier today San Francisco Giants Manager Bruce Bochy was on KNBR with Razor and Mr. T talking about the magic that was the 2010 season and the promise of the 2011 campaign. There was one thing that Boch was more than happy to admit; it feels good to be the champs.
Bruce said that it doesn't get old to be introduced as World Series champs, and won't all season long. He admitted that his offseason approach stays the same even as world champions, except the offseason is a bit shorter. The team know that they have a target on their backs, but they earned it and thoroughly enjoy it.
"We feel we can beat anybody and that's not going to change."
Bochy also talked about how they only have 11 pitchers as of right now, and if they would add a 12th to the pitching staff. He said that they're staying opening minded but want 12 pitchers, which might mean someone like Travis Ishikawa or Nate Schierholtz might not make the squad. The Giants' braintrust wants to have the most flexibility as possible, and the most coverage available on the pitching staff as well as in the fielding.
Bruce went to speak on some of the players who have shined thus far in Spring Training, especially the youngster Brandon Belt. Boch said that if he wants to make the squad all he needs is to be himself and continue to play great ball. He feels that Belt is similar to Buser Posey only from the left side of the plate, and that the Giants need another lefty bat in lineup. Boch did admit though that they wont put him on the opening day roster unless he starts, so it is still up in the air if he will begin the season with the Fresno Grizzles or not.
Bruce talked about the outfield as well, particularly left field and how it will affect the playing time of Pat Burrell and Mark DeRosa. Boch feels (as do I) that DeRosa is best suited as the super utility man on the squad, being able to play anywhere on the diamond (including first base) and in the outfield as well.
All this talk has got me ready for Opening Day. Is it April yet or what?