Tomas progressing in transition to third base
Primarily an outfielder in Cuba, D-backs' prized addition also adjusting to training regimen
PHOENIX -- So far, so good for Yasmany Tomas when it comes to learning how to play third base.
After returning to Miami for a week, Tomas has been working out since Wednesday with his new D-backs teammates at the organization's Salt River Fields Spring Training facility.
"He's working every day," D-backs manager Chip Hale said. "[Interpreter Ariel] Prieto is here with him. It's been really good. I mean, talk about a guy that really wants to learn, he's been fantastic."
Tomas, who was signed as a free agent out of Cuba in December, has gotten a chance to get to know a good portion of his D-backs teammates taking part in voluntary workouts.
Initially, Hale had Minor League coach Tony Perezchica, who speaks fluent Spanish, working with Tomas, but now with Prieto on board, third-base/infield coach Andy Green has also become heavily involved.
"Now with Ariel here, Green's been able to really get a lot of quality work in with him," Hale said. "Basically he now just falls into line with the rest of the guys' programs, and he's been great with it."
Tomas played primarily in the outfield in Cuba, but the D-backs plan on giving him a chance to show that he can play third base. If he is able to do so, it would ease a logjam in their outfield.
"I mean, this is before Spring Training, but I'm very encouraged with what I see with his feet and his hands," Hale said. "We can push him a little harder each day on stuff. We're just going to see how it goes. His capability to take in information and put it into play right away is impressive. He's got the basics down."
In addition to acclimating to a different culture and learning a new position, Tomas is also being exposed to training that is new to him.
The D-backs, like a lot of Major League teams, have emphasized functional movement rather than strictly weight training.
"He realizes the things he has to get better at," Hale said. "And the training part of it is all new to him and all the different stretches and movements. He's been great taking it all in and learning from it."