Cubs pitchers and catchers had their first workout today

Cubs pitchers and catchers had their first official workout this afternoon in Mesa.  New manager Dale Sveum was especially excited for the season to begin.  "It seems like I got hired two years ago," he said. "Just waiting for this day to come finally, getting on the field, and it took to the late afternoon to get on there and do it. When you do this for so many years, the most comfortable spot you're in is when you're on that grass and spring training (begins) and when the balls are being hit and caught and thrown, and to be able to talk to everybody."

Paul Maholm tweeted today, "Great first day. Gotta love getting back on the field with the guys and running around. First bullpen tomorrow. #GoCubsGo"

Paul Maholm in the locker room in Mesa today. Photo from Rafer Weigel.

 Here are some photos from Mesa today:

Matt Garza in the Cubs locker room in Mesa today. Photo from Rafer Weigel.

Cubs pitchers and catchers during their first official workout in Mesa today. Photo from Chicago Cubs.

Ryan Dempster in Mesa today. Photo from Rafer Weigel.

In other news, the Cubs signed 34-year old, left-handed pitcher Nate Robertson, who has pitched for the Marlins, Tigers, Phillies, and Mariners in his career.  He spent the entire 2011 season pitching for the Mariners' Triple-A team. 

Cubs reporter/blogger Carrie Muskat tweeted today, "Garza also says Theo's arrival has resulted in upgrade in clubhouse. "We've got better cooks."  Hopefully the improved food will lead to an improved Cubs team in 2012!