When read out of context and without an appreciation for tongue-in-cheek humor, Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez might appear to be kicking off spring training in a foul mood.
Of course, he's not—at least not yet. He has a World Series contender on paper, and his hopes and spirits have been high throughout the offseason.
But that didn't stop him from sending a few barbs out through the media to projected bench players Jordan Schafer and Tyler Pastornicky, chiding them for not showing a day early to full squad workouts with the rest of the team Thursday. On top of everything, Gonzalez made sure to point out that both players live within two hours of the ESPN Wide World of Sports, where the team trains.
One thing is for sure, though: Gonzalez pulled few punches in his media sessions, although it should be noted that the reporters in attendance were said to be laughing along with his humorous remarks.
For the full quotes and analysis, check out this edition of the Chopcast (a quick one this time around, we promise).
Zach Dillard and Jay Clemons delve into the essential question surrounding these public but good-natured jabs: is this really an issue worth worrying about or is Gonzalez just keeping his players on their toes early on?
