Practice: Return of the blog

Not sure where the trusty blogger has been--obviously not doing his job. Hopefully, that doesn't mean push-ups anytime soon.

The Mudcats gathered on Tuesday night for practice a feast. Oh, and there also may have been some baseball. The first hour was spent in the cages rotating between live pitching, tee work, and soft toss.

On the field, the 'Cats simulated their pregame routine for Thursday's season opener, which if executed at the same pace as Tuesday's practice may need to commence at around 2:30 p.m. for the 5:30 game. The outfield took some fly balls while the infield fielded grounders.

After the pregame simulation, the Mudcats worked on game situations. A highlight-reel play was turned in by a new outfielder known only as "Lil' Tom," who speared a well-hit ball in right-center. Multiple players got reps at several different positions, and the only baserunning error was made by Coach Sean, who was caught in a crisply executed rundown between third and home.

Practice concluded with what was allegedly a birthday meal for Donovan but looked more like the midnight buffet on a well-stocked cruise ship. Players and coaches sang for both Donovan and Coach Matt, and players also received their uniforms.

Gametime on Thursday is 5:30. Coach Sean made the very wise call that even though the team order for the pants was messed up by the vendor, the Mudcats will indeed still wear pants on Thursday. As he put it, "I should have the new pants at the game on Thursday. Just in case, wear pants anyway." Good tip. This is why he is the head coach.

Pregame begins as close to 4:30 as possible, with the Mudcats slated to take infield at 5:10.