Worth noting

By Steve Gilbert

March 20, 2014

• The D-backs played a three-inning simulated game on Thursday to get familiar with the field at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

• Back in Arizona, Bronson Arroyo (bulging disc) threw 46 pitches in a simulated game and could still be able to start the season on time, and Brandon McCarthy threw 75-80 pitches in a Minor League game and another 15 in the bullpen.

• The D-backs are hoping to get five innings out of Archie Bradley in Friday's exhibition game against Team Australia. He was roughed up in his last Cactus League start.

"He's had a couple good bullpens since his last outing," Gibson said. "He didn't have a very good outing last time. I know he's looking forward to throwing a good game."

• Several of the players' guests on the trip as well as some support staff have been hit by a stomach flu bug, but Gibson is hoping it doesn't carry over to the team.

• A number of players, led by J.J. Putz, did the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb on Thursday.

Steve Gilbert is a reporter for MLB.com. Read his blog, Inside the D-backs, and follow him on Twitter @SteveGilbertMLB.