A Plan's a Plan

 Ballplayers mostly care about three things—their contracts, the size of the dugout and clubhouse amenities.  I mean, when was the last time you heard a player complain about the cost of tickets or concessions or what a joke it is for fans to have to watch them from way up in the second—or third—deck?  That’s why I was surprised to read about some Cub players upset over the plan to move the bullpens in Wrigley from foul territory down both the lines to under the outfield stands.

“I know most guys personally don’t like the feel of throwing indoors,” Jake Arrieta said in the Tribune last week.  Yes, it makes sense to throw indoors during the offseason or because of the rain, but Arrieta prefers to warm up outside when he can:  “There really is no comparison to being outside to replicate the way you’re going to be pitching in a game situation.  I’m OK with it.  I like it.”  Despite the views of Arrieta and, reportedly, other players, the move is scheduled to take place next season.

The team says it’s concerned about injuries, and outfielders do on occasion trip over the mound when going after foul balls.  Still, I wonder, is this a move that’s going to cost money, or is it intended to make money?  Either way, it’s a rare case of the players be damned, even a potential repeat Cy Young award winner.