Yahoo Sports Marlins manager Schumaker reunites with ex-Marlin Dempster, reminisces on pitching performances
Marlins manager Skip Schumaker and Cubs television analyst Ryan Dempster, the pitcher against whom Schumaker got his first MLB hit, caught up during batting practice before the Marlins’ series opener against the Cubs.
Friday also marked the 13th anniversary of Schumaker’s MLB pitching debut — one of four times he took the mound during his 11-year playing career.
Schumaker entered as a reliever for the Cardinals in the top of the ninth and faced five Dodgers batters. He struck out two, walked one, and gave up a two-run home run to Aaron Miles.
“[I remember] How scary it was. It’s super close, too close with some really big hitters in front of you, and they’re trying to hit home runs,” Schumaker said.
“I actually faced [Marlins’ field coordinator] Rod Barajas. He’s 0 for 1 against me. Deep fly ball out. I always have that on him. I almost hit him in the head, also, two pitches before that — I did not try to do that. But it’s scary. I don’t love it. I wanted it to be done with, and I’m glad that part of my life is over.”
The value of versatility
Schumaker, who played second base, all three outfield positions, and was a designated hitter for four games, said he values versatility as a manager.
“It’s nice to be able to match up and not worry about defense being a liability,” he said. “If guys can play multiple positions at least at an average rate and also provide offense, that’s really exciting.”
A vote for Votto
Schumaker said former Reds teammate Joey Votto should be a Hall of Famer. The first baseman, a six-time All-Star and the 2010 NL MVP first baseman, announced his retirement Wednesday after 17 seasons — all with Cincinnati.
“He’s one of my favorites of all time,” Schumaker said.
Injury update
On Friday, RHP Sixto Sánchez (shoulder) threw a 15-pitch bullpen session, LHP Ryan Weathers (finger) threw a 30-pitch batting practice, and LHP Braxton Garrett (elbow) threw a 25-pitch BP. Weathers’ next BP will be Monday and Garrett’s next will be Tuesday.
LHP Josh Simpson (elbow) will throw one inning Saturday for Triple-A Jacksonville after pitching Wednesday. RHP Sandy Alcantara (elbow) is continuing his bullpen progression, RHP Eury Pérez (elbow) is doing total body strengthening, and LHP Jesús Luzárdo (back) is resting, biking, and strengthening.
OF Dane Myers (ankle) is performing anti-gravity exercises, and RHP Anthony Bender (shoulder) is playing catch in Jupiter.
