McClellan
We started the morning today with two guys who stepped into a couple monstrous roles this season, even if they were short-lived. When Adam Wainwright went down, the role of starter went to Kyle McClellan, and he handled the situation with as much grace as could be expected after having previously been a bullpen guy.
This off-season has had more talk about his upcoming contract negotiations rather than his performance on the mound, but today’s conversation didn’t focus on that much at all.
On the World Series:
“Was I happy I wasn’t on the roster? No. But I feel like I put my piece in earlier in the season. It is kind of nice to wake up with no pressure. I didn’t have to worry about blowing the game that night.”
On his role this coming season:
“I’ve taken a lot of time off and maintained my shoulder exercises. I’ll be ready to go. For right now, I’m just going to do the same thing I’ve done. I think that’s what makes me valuable is that I can do a lot of things….I can help the team bridge a gap. … My job is to come in and get outs, no matter right or lefty.”
Prior to McClellan coming in the room, we were fortunate enough to talk to Allen Craig for a bit. As would be expected, most of the focus was on his knee and how he felt physically.
Craig
On his knee:
“After this I’m just getting my right leg strong. I’m going down to Florida and just focus on my knee. … The more doctors I talked to it became pretty obvious what needed to happen. … I’m taking it one day at a time, but I’m surprised at how good I’m feeling at this point.”
On playing in the World Series:
“I had those days off to recover. When the adrenaline is going, you can get through it. … I don’t think I put the team at risk by being out there.”
On the upcoming season/team:
“I don’t worry about being left out in the cold. … I won’t rush back because that wouldn’t do anyone any good. I’m really excited. A lot of guys still have a lot of things to prove. I don’t really care where I play, I just want to play.”
On the final catch and giving the final ball to Tony LaRussa:
“I had the thrill of catching it, so that’s all I need. I’ll never forget it. Just the buzz of the stadium. I was ready for it. It was exciting.”
He joked that he “didn’t want to be the guy” who didn’t give Tony LaRussa the last ball. I can’t say that I blame him.
Craig’s absolutely clutch performance over and over again in the World Series were plays that I won’t ever forget. His mindset is very much the same as many other guys on the team, and having the versatility, the drive, and the desire to play is something that will make this team a top contender in the league this year.
