(670 The Score) While Cubs closer Craig Kimbrel's performance in an intrasquad game Tuesday featured exactly what plagued him in his ugly 2019 season, he didn't express worry.
After giving up a single to third baseman Kris Bryant and a two-run homer to catcher Willson Contreras, Kimbrel noted it felt good to face live hitters again and viewed the work day as progress.
"I felt pretty good about yesterday," Kimbrel said on a Zoom call Wednesday. "I was just trying to throw the ball over the plate. That was the first time I had guys taking swings off of me in the last three months. I felt good and got some good feedback. It was a good day."
Kimbrel was torched by the home run ball in 2019, when he allowed nine long balls in just 20 2/3 innings and posted a 6.53 ERA in 23 appearances. Like for all his peers trying to lock down games in the ninth inning, homers have a different meaning for closers than they do starters or middle relievers.
Kimbrel did look good before Contreras' homer Tuesday, striking out shortstop Javier Baez and outfielder Kyle Schwarber. Beyond that, manager David Ross likes what he has seen from Kimbrel early on in summer camp.
"He looks good," Ross said about Kimbrel early Tuesday. "All the numbers we are getting back from the analytical people and the data we're receiving from those bullpens and these live sessions have been great."
Kimbrel's challenge in 2019 was a late start, as he didn't have his usual spring training to get into form as he went unsigned until agreeing to a three-year, $43-million deal with the Cubs in June. The coronavirus pandemic has now interrupted his 2020 ramp-up, but Kimbrel knows he must rise to the challenge in a shortened season.
"In my role, turning the page is always been a big thing," he said. "However in 60 games, each game will be a big thing. I don't think guys can carry anything (baggage) like in a 162-game season."
Kimbrel, 32, has worked on his changeup and relied on the Cubs' metrics department for information that he can use to his advantage.
"The changeup is definitely something I have been working on," Kimbrel said. "Recently I have been throwing it a lot more. If the situation presents itself and I feel confident enough to use it, I will. If I can get a swing-and-miss or groundball from it, I want to try it out. The metrics department has helped with arm angle and slotting of my arm. I have definitely taught myself about the equipment we can use."
Entering his 11th MLB season, Kimbrel will encounter a new situation when he pitches in extra innings this year. MLB will start extra innings with a runner on second base in the regular season.
"It is what it is," he said about the rule. "My understanding is once you get to the playoffs, it doesn't apply. It will come into play big time (in the regular season)."
Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.
