Charles Johnson hit a drive over the high wall in center field, followed by a shot to left-center that bounced onto a maintenance shed.
The next pitch sailed out to left, landed in the parking lot and just missed a bus about 100 feet behind the fence.
“Somebody better move that bus!” Colorado Rockies teammate Todd Greene yelled.
It’s still early in spring training, but Johnson likes how he feels after shortening his swing in the off-season.
“I’ve definitely noticed a difference,” he said Monday in Tucson, Ariz. “BP is BP, but you’ve got to start somewhere.”
Johnson, 32, provided a little pop from the No. 8 spot in the Rockies’ lineup last season, setting a team record for catchers with 20 homers.
Unfortunately, it was all or nothing. Johnson hit .230 and had more strikeouts than hits (84-82), prompting the retooling.
“He made some adjustments on his own over the winter, some things we talked about at the end of the season,” Rockies manager Clint Hurdle said. “He’s come in in great shape, he’s come in with a very, very clean attitude.”
A’s pitchers make strides
Athletics pitchers Rich Harden and Chad Bradford each took a step forward in returning from minor injuries. Harden, who said he hurt his left (non-throwing) shoulder turning off an alarm clock, threw 40 pitches on the side. Bradford, recovering from back spasms, played catch for the first time in more than a week.
Mets see future
In Port St. Lucie, Fla., the New York Mets got a glimpse of what they hope will be a promising future when talented youngsters Jose Reyes and David Wright each hit a two-run homer in an intra-squad game. Reyes, 20, will start at second base this season after shifting from shortstop to make room for Kaz Matsui. Wright, who played in ClassA last season, is considered a top prospect at third base.
“Our organization is a lot deeper than it was a year ago at this time,” manager Art Howe said.
Still talking
Milwaukee Brewers officials continue to negotiate with left fielder Geoff Jenkins’ representatives. Jenkins is in the final year of a contract that will pay him more than $8.5 million this season, and wants negotiations wrapped up by the first exhibition game Thursday.
He’s reportedly seeking a four-year deal worth close to $32 million; the Brewers have reportedly offered three years at $20 million.
