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| Jeff Singer, image- Jay Floyd |
Local Philly guy Jeff Singer is back in his home region due to the coronavirus outbreak and the delay it has caused to the 2020 season. Prior to the pre-season being halted, the 26-year-old got some time on the bump with the big league team in spring training.
In Grapefruit League player, the lefty pitcher notched two scoreless appearances for the Phillies this spring.
Last season in 42 relief outings with Double-A Reading Singer, who was signed as a free agent in 2015, posted a 7-0 record with three saves, a 2.34 ERA, a 10.8 K/9 mark and a .180 batting average against.
Last week, I talked with Singer, who shared his thoughts on his time around the Phillies this spring, his current training situation, the baseball hiatus and more. Read ahead for that full interview.
- What can you share thoughts about how the hiatus for the baseball schedule caused by the coronavirus pandemic will impact your training or progress?
This is a tough situation for everyone and it’s something that no one in baseball ever went through. As for my training I’m going to be doing anything I can to stay in shape.
I will be going to Scanzano Sports Center in Cherry Hill to throw and lift. I’ll be doing my running there and also outside. Most likely be doing workouts in my front or back yard.
- Do you have thoughts to provide on the disruption to your expected baseball related income?
When I first got home I was setting up lessons and training sessions at the facility. I’m not sure if that’s going to be possible with the possible quarantine that can happen in the next few days. Obviously as a minor leaguer any money you can make is important and I’m sure a bunch of us are curious when the next time we get paid could be.
- Seems that the 40-man roster guys will be getting paid during this break...and I read that MLB has committed money to financially help ballpark employees during the down time. As an employee of the team, in the developmental ranks, what are your feelings about being left out or having an unclear resolution?
I’m sure the MLB will be taking care of us soon. I understand helping out the big league guys and 40 man first. That’s where the money is. As for the employees at the ball parks, I think that is amazing that they are being helped out.
- What types of workout plans do you have for the downtime? Training with any other pro players?
As of right now I will be training by myself and basically throwing at a net or wall, as I usually do during the off-season. If I have a bullpen I will have a one of the catchers at the facility come catch me and give him a few bucks.
- I saw that you got some experience in big league spring training games this year. Can you describe the experience of playing in Grapefruit League games and enjoying success?
This was my fifth Spring Training and I pitched in my first Grapefruit League game in 2017. I felt this year was the most comfortable I felt in one of them games. Definitely two outings I will never forget.
- Was there anyone, like a coach or a teammate, that you were excited to get exposure to with the big club?
It was great to meet and talk to (Joe) Girardi and (Bryan) Price. I was able to get some exposure in front of them and show them what I can do.
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