Ryan Braun and Corey Hart Both Working Their Way Back

Ryan Braun is in a slump. As of this post, he's had only one hit during spring training. He's also had three walks, so it's not as if the guy isn't getting on base. Still, the Brewers outfielder might be struggling to concentrate after the crazy off season he had. He had to weather some harsh cat calls during a "road" game against the Angels. He says that kind of stuff doesn't bother him at all. One would think that if you are going to weather a slump, you might as well do it when the games don't count.

All reports about his batting practices are good. He is not converting those times in the batting cage into productive hitting in game situations just yet. Some say that he's avoiding the media, and that might be true. He's got to get his head together and the rest will follow.

Corey Hart Opening Day Preparations

It looks like Corey Hart will be healed by opening day, but he's got some things to work out before he's in the lineup. First, Hart needs to stay on track with practices. A perfectly healthy knee is fine, but if he doesn't get enough time at the plate and on the field, Hart may have to sit out the first week of the regular season. The surgery itself is not very invasive. It's more about the time needed to ramp up to playing speed. The first few games are away from Miller Park. Perhaps he will be swinging the bat in Milwaukee by April 6.