MESA, Ariz. -- It's been a rejuvenating offseason for Kerry Wood. The right-hander has come a long way from that 20-strikeout game his rookie season and now is the longest tenured player on the Cubs' Spring Training roster. He's one of three pitchers battling for the closer's job.
Most important, Wood is healthy.
"I felt great when I finished the season last year," Wood said. "It felt like June for me when the season was over because I had such a late start. I took some time off and got right back into it. It's nice to come into camp. My body feels good, and I'm ready to go."
Last season marked the first time Wood pitched in the big leagues but did not make a start. It was by design, part of the move to switch him to relief to ease the work load on his right shoulder. He was slowed last Spring Training by his shoulder and was not activated from the disabled list until Aug. 3.
The right-hander, who totaled 200-plus innings in 2002 and '03, appeared in 24 1/3 innings in '07. He struck out 24 and compiled a 3.33 ERA. Wood ended the year with eight consecutive scoreless appearances, striking out 13 and walking three over 9 2/3 innings.
The Official Site of The Chicago Cubs: News: Wood feeling good as camp opens
02-17-2008, 06:02 PM
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