Diamondbacks' Peter O'Brien working on defense

Diamondbacks catcher Peter O'Brien has been in Arizona since Jan. 6 working on his defense, MLB.com reports.

"I've always had a strong arm, but the biggest thing has been being able to use it," O'Brien said. "I'm trying to get a little more momentum going toward second base and that's definitely helped me out and my direction, just trying to shorten up those feet and trying to be more direct in line to second base."

Diamondbacks pitching prospect Archie Bradley, who has worked with O'Brien at Double-A Mobile and in the Arizona Fall League, has noticed the improvements in O'Brien's game.

"The improvements he's made catching, throwing guys out, his footwork, everything [is better]," Bradley said. "He's obviously a very gifted athlete, but to see him put in the work and to see the improvements he's made, it doesn't surprise me at all. He's improved a lot."

Battling to win the starting catcher job this spring, O'Brien is 4 for 9 with three walks in five games.


(cbssports.com)