Johjima get ready for M's opener
March 31st 2009 08:46
During most bullpen sessions this late in spring training, a non-roster invitee like Chris Jakubauskas would be throwing to some minor-league catcher up with the team to give the regulars a break.
But while starters Felix Hernandez and Erik Bedard were firing fastballs to backups on a recent morning, it was Mariners' catcher Kenji Johjima squatting behind the dish to learn how Jakubauskas throws, just in case he makes Seattle's final roster.
This isn't just a crash course for Johjima in the final days of spring training. It's an all-out cram session worthy of any college student studying up during finals week. Johjima must learn new signs, get to know the needs and wishes of a new coaching staff, and catch as many different pitchers as possible before the season opener on April 6 — all without wearing himself out.
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