The Big Hurt Building Strength

Designated hitter Frank Thomas won't appear in a Grapefruit League game until March 9 at the earliest as he continues to build up strength in his legs. Thomas was limited to 108 games due to a severe left ankle injury from 2004-05, so the Blue Jays don't want their free-agent prize taking any unnecessary risks, even though the foot didn't present a problem in 2006. Thomas is significantly ahead of where he was last spring, when he didn't begin running until late March following foot surgery. If a restful spring is what it takes to spark the 38-year-old slugger to another 39-homer, 114-RBI campaign, consider Toronto -- and yourself -- all for it.
Source: MLB.com