WATCH: Tommy Hottovy provides update on Javier Assad, progress of pitchers |
Cubs pitching coach Tommy Hottovy spoke about the progress of pitchers at the start of spring training, Javier Asaad's injury, having Shota Imanaga pitch in Japan and more.
Watch the interview below:
Early Spring Camp Progress (00:00 - 00:31) Cubs pitchers are ahead of schedule due to offseason work. Warmer weather in early February has helped with preparation. Shota Imanaga's Development (01:02 - 02:49) Maintained communication with coaching staff during offseason. Excited to pitch in Japan; sees it as a special opportunity. Focused on improving overlooked aspects like controlling the running game. Javier Assad Injury Update (02:49 - 03:46) Experienced discomfort after a bullpen session and workout. Injury wasn’t due to a single throw, which provides some optimism. Cubs are prioritizing long-term health over early-season availability. Team Reaction to Injuries (03:46 - 04:46) No negative impact on team morale; injuries are part of the game. Coaching staff emphasizes long-term readiness over rushing recoveries. Concerns with Younger Pitchers (04:46 - 05:44) Brandon Birdsell dealing with back/shoulder issues. Goal is to get him acclimated to MLB routines, not rush his recovery. Building Pitching Depth (06:16 - 07:15) Cubs have prioritized adding experienced arms in the bullpen. Notable additions include Colin Rea, Matt Boyd, and relievers like Ryan Pressly. Japan trip requires careful workload management. Managing Veteran Pitchers (07:15 - 08:42) Older pitchers like Pressly bring experience, but workload must be monitored. Cubs focus on pitch shapes, mechanics, and delivery rather than just velocity. Japan Roster Selection Challenges (09:11 - 09:42) Not every pitcher will travel; tough decisions will be made early. Staff is ensuring players don’t overexert themselves just to make the trip. Hottovy's History with Ryan Pressly (10:12 - 11:50) First met Pressly in 2008 during rehab; saw him develop from a young pitcher. Pressly’s growth from a competitive prospect to a seasoned veteran is notable. Monitoring Brown and Wicks' Recovery (13:21 - 13:57) Cubs are carefully managing their intensity levels to avoid setbacks. Coaching staff is focused on progression and workload control.Video summary/cliff-notes
