Piniella to Marmol: Get over it

Lou Piniella responds to Carlos Marmol’s comments about the non-competition involving the closer position. The Cubs also chose to keep Koyie Hill over Paul Bako as the back up catcher.

“Let me tell you what, it was all about competition, that I can tell you,” Piniella said. “I don’t know how many innings Gregg has pitched, but he hasn’t given up a run here all spring. I’ve said all along that either way we went, we’d be making the right choice.”

Gregg has pitched 8 1/3 shutout innings, while Marmol has been inconsistent with a 4.50 ERA. Piniella knows Marmol was frustrated, but didn’t seem too happy with his reaction to losing the battle with Gregg.  

“I’m sure he is somewhat disappointed, or he is disappointed,” Piniella said. “But he needs to get over it and pitch and help us win baseball games. And I know he will. he’s a good young man and he competes well and today he’ll get the ball and we’ll go from there.”

As for the decision to go with Koyie Hill over Paul Bako, Piniella called it a “tough” call, but did not elaborate on his reasons.

“First of all, Hill has had a good spring,” he said. “That enters into it. Outside of that, we talked about it long and hard and the decision was made. It wasn’t easy. Look, the important thing now is that hopefully Paul can get a major league job quick. I think he will. He’s a very capable catcher. If he can get a major league job, I’ll be very happy.”

Bako left camp without addressing the media. Hill was unavailable for comment before Monday’s game. The 13 position players are now set, and Micah Hoffpauir is officially on the roster, as Piniella has hinted all along.

 

 

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