Chris Owings took live batting practice for the first time on Friday. Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
The Arizona Diamondbacks reported some good news on the injury front. According to Steve Gilbert at mlb.com, starting shortstop Chris Owings took live batting practice for the first time during Spring Training. You will remember that Owings had surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder last October.
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Owings took swings off pitchers Matt Reynolds and Blake Beavan on Friday. Manager Chip Hale called it a “huge day” for Owings as he attempts to follow up on a solid rookie campaign. For now, the team is taking a cautious approach as Owings will not see Cactus League action for at least another five or six days. He is expected to face another round of live pitching in the cages and may appear in a Minor League game before appearing in a Spring Training contest.
Though the D’backs are clearly taking it easy on Owings, they expect him to start on Opening Day. A full season from the 23-year old former PCL Rookie of the Year will go a long way in helping the Snakes escape the National League West basement.