×

Dickerson working hard on his defense

The Associated Press

BRADENTON, Fla. — Corey Dickerson came to the Pittsburgh Pirates with the reputation of being a good hitter and poor defender.

The starting designated hitter for the AL in the 2017 All-Star Game while with Tampa Bay, Dickerson was used in the outfield in only 93 games last year.

Traded to the Pirates, he committed one error in 266 total chances last year and won a Gold Glove award for his play in left field.

“People don’t know the hundreds of hours I put in during the offseason, working on my defense,” Dickerson said at Pirates’ training camp. “I work on weaknesses and my strengths. It’s important mentally to know I can go out there and perform. I knew I could do it and take it to the next level. As the year went on, my confidence just grew and grew. It’s about growing and continuing to get better. If you’re not, you may as well hang them up. I’m always trying to get better.”

Dickerson made a great first impression in Pittsburgh last season.

“He showed us he’s a motivated man,” manager Clint Hurdle said.

Dickerson not only wanted to play better defense but also improve his batting average. He hit a career-best .300 though his home runs dropped to 13 from a career-high 27 in 2017.

He started spring training 7 for 11 (.636) with a double and a triple.

“I pride myself on taking care of business and playing the game the right way,” Dickerson said. “No matter what happens or who you play for, the performance just kind of takes care of itself. I just concern myself with my work ethic and my camaraderie with my teammates. It’s important to get along with those guys. As far as success, I never really worry about it. Results take care of itself.”

Dickerson turns 30 in May and is eligible for free agency after the season. He has an $8.5 million salary this year and could be too pricey for the Pirates to retain.

“It’s great to be part of this family,” Dickerson said. “It’s a great environment. I love it here. I’d like to stay.”

Camp notes: RHPs Jesus Liranzo and Aaron Slegers were optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis along with SS Cole Tucker and OF Jason Martin while RHP Alex McRae was reassigned to minor league camp.

Taillon pitches in first official game

BRADENTON, Fla. — Jameson Taillon, in his first Grapefruit League start, gave up three earned runs on five hits in four innings of work as the Pittsburgh Pirates fell to Minneosta, 10-4, Tuesday afternoon.

The Pirates were up 4-3 when Taillon exited the game. He struck out two and did not walk a batter. Relief pitcher Tyler Lyons was touched up for five earned runs on three hits and a walk in just one-third of inning, as the Twins scored five times in the top of the ninth to extend their 5-4 lead.

Adam Frazier went 2-for-4 with a double and two RBIs for the Bucs. Teammate Starling Marte reachedd base safely three times, including an RBI double. Melky Cabrera added two hits and a run score for the Pirates.

Pittsburgh (7-11-1) is off today and will play the Philadelphia Phillies Thursday at 1:05 p.m. Trevor Williams is slated to tart for the Bucs, while Francisco Liriano, Nick Burdi, Clay Holmes and Brandon Maurer are all scheduled to see get some work.

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

COMMENTS

[vivafbcomment]

Starting at $4.39/week.

Subscribe Today