FEBRUARY

- 2/28/01
Hi everyone. It has been raining here all day. So there is not much going on over at the complex. Hitters are just hit in the cages. I found "a window" (as Steve Green would say) in the weather to play long toss. Hope everyone is well. See ya guys later. Russ

Once again the big leaguers were all over the place. I watched Jeff Nelson, Moyer, Halama, Sele, and Arthur Rhodes throw bullpens. And I was 2 feet from Pinella. It feels so awkward being around them, but they break balls just like we do.

Browny when I was in the weight room I was getting a drink a water and Buhner came up behind me, I was going to ask fro you but I chickened out. I feel funny asking them for that stuff.

Brett Boone seems to be the most friendly to talk to. I shared the leg extension machine with him. He's pretty cool. Talk to ya later. Russ

- 2/26/01
Hey guys I had my first day at the park today and things went well. I talked with the minor league pitching coordinator and he said I looked good and that maybe if they need some arms, I might be able to pitch in a big league game during camp. Other than that I threw a bullpen and lifted.

It's a bit overwelming when you are in the weight room and you are sharing it with Jay Buhner, Edgar Martinez, Bret Boone and Jeff Nelson. But you know you just have to act cool and not act all star struck. The weather was overcast and 68. There are a lot of Japenese reporters here to see Sasaki and some other guy we just signed.

You have to see the cars in the parking lot. It looks like an exotic car show. But the first day went ok. I was a bit nervous but I think that's common. I will keep you are updated as to how things are going. Russ

- 2/24/01
I arrived today in Arizona, the temperature is 71 and sunny. I am excited to get going. Just wanted to let all you guys know that I got here ok. I will be in contact to let you all no how things are going. Russ