Seven position players join pitchers, catchers in Florida

BRADENTON, Fla. -- Everyone was present and accounted for on the first day of the Pirates' Spring Training, with pitchers and catchers scoring 100 percent at roll call.

Thirty-six batterymen, including non-roster invitees, were in-house. Newcomer Edinson Volquez, who was in town but didn't make it to camp on Wednesday's report day, was one of the first in the Pirate City locker room Thursday morning.

Seven position players were also already on hand in advance of their mandatory report day on Monday: the double-play combination of shortstop Jordy Mercer and second baseman Neil Walker, outfielders Jose Tabata and Jeff Decker, first basemen Gaby Sanchez and Chris McGuiness, and shortstop Chase d'Arnaud.

They underwent the routine entrance physicals, and field workouts began around 12:30 p.m. ET.

"We are in a good place with the physical presence of the guys here," manager Clint Hurdle said after the workouts. "They are excited and eager to go. The angst we felt after Game 5 [of the National League Division Series] in St. Louis, we earned that. And we're definitely looking forward to taking the next step.