McClendon eyes first full-squad drills

BRADENTON, Fla. (AP) -- Pittsburgh Pirates manager Lloyd McClendon is anxious to see what his team is going to look like.
The Pirates' final workout for pitchers and catchers was shortened to 75 minutes Wednesday because of rain, and that gave McClendon time to look ahead to the first full-squad session, scheduled for today.
"It will be full go," McClendon said. "It spices things up and breaks the monotony we've had the first five days. It will be good to see the guys out there."
The Pirates expect almost all 64 players on the spring roster to be on hand for the workout. First baseman Randall Simon, who came to terms with the Pirates, may be a day late arriving from Curacao.
McClendon's focus
Until the Pirates break camp April 3, McClendon has several key issues to address. Second base was supposed to be a contest between Freddy Sanchez and Bobby Hill, but Sanchez has been unable to take the field because of a right ankle injury.
Left fielder Jason Bay's status is uncertain because of right shoulder surgery. He started swinging a bat this week, but won't begin throwing a baseball for at least two more weeks.
The pitching staff has openings for a fifth starter, a closer and a couple of setup men.
"I've said all along I think my biggest concern is second base," McClendon said. "What we do there and how things shape up in the bullpen, those are the big things we need to iron out over the course of the next six weeks."
The Pirates also have several contingency plans if Bay opens the season on the disabled list. Raul Mondesi, signed this week to play right field, could be switched to left, particularly in games played at PNC Park.
Craig Wilson, whose playing time was affected by the Simon and Mondesi signings, also could be used in left. Other candidates include rookie J.J. Davis, who is out of minor-league options, and non-roster invitees Daryle Ward, Ruben Mateo and Chris Singleton.
"It's something we'll have to sit down and discuss," McClendon said. "We have a lot of quality people in camp."