Day 1: Mini Camp Report

The Steelers went through their first mandatory mini camp this morning. The only no show was linebacker Larry Foote who is still on the Steelers roster. There has been speculation that Willie Parker would be a no show but Parker did participate in team activities today. News and Notes from our source on the scene *The Steelers plan to use 3rd round pick Kraig Urbik primarily at guard but he will get some work at tackle and center throughout the off-season drills. *2008 4th round pick (LT) Tony Hills appears to be a project in year 2. Continues to struggle with his lateral movement against speed rushers . *Quarterback Dennis Dixon threw the ball very well on day 1. Dixon

Spring Training Report

Pirates catchers and pitchers have already arrived to Bradenton and a number of position players have arrived early including 2008 1st round draft Pedro Alvarez. Kevin Goldstein of Baseball Prospectus released his top 100 minor league prospects with Pedro Alvarez coming in as Goldstein’s #4 prospect. Orioles catcher Matt Wieters is rated as the top minor league prospect in the majors. Two other Pirates prospects received some recognition. Centerfielder Andrew McCutchen came in at #25 and outfielder Jose Tabata #91. Alvarez who showed up to minicamp 20 lbs over his normal playing weight (235) is in good shape as the official start of training camp begins on Tuesday. Alvarez has been running the base pads well and his bat speed