After a strong rookie season, right-hander Chris Volstad is wasting little time getting ready for 2009.
Volstad, 22, has been working out since November at the team's spring training site in Jupiter, Fla. He was prepared to start a throwing program shortly after the New Year, a tune-up for the first day of camp on Feb. 14. "I'm really fired up," he said. "I can't wait to start playing again."
The team's top draft pick (16th overall) in 2005, Volstad is projected to be Florida's No. 3 starter, behind right-handers Ricky Nolasco and Josh Johnson. Volstad made his major league debut in July and finished the 2008 season with a 6-4 record and 2.88 ERA in 15 games (14 starts).
Volstad already has two personal goals for 2009 -- a double-digit win total and 200 innings.
"One thing that really allows him to have success is his ability to command his fastball," pitching coach Mark Wiley said.
"Everybody sees what his mound presence is like and what his focus is like. He's one of those rare young guys who seems to be not overwhelmed by the big-league level."
