GOODYEAR, Ariz. (AP) — Mike Leake cut his long hair before the start of spring training, and that’s not the only major change for the right-hander.
The 25-year-old right-hander is no longer assured a spot in the rotation. That fifth starter’s spot is open to competition between Leake and left-hander Aroldis Chapman, who is getting a chance to move from the closer’s role into the rotation.
Leake went 8-9 with a 4.56 ERA last season and got hit hard in his one playoff appearance. Overall, it was a disappointment he’s gotten over by not dwelling on it too much.
Barring injury, the rest of the rotation is set with right-handers Johnny Cueto, Mat Latos, Bronson Arroyo and Homer Bailey. General manager Walt Jocketty would like to add a left-hander to the rotation.
