By Joe Smith, Times Staff Writer
Friday, May 18, 2012
ST. PETERSBURG — RHP Alex Cobb figured he'd get called up to fill in for injured RHP Jeff Niemann, packing and preparing all week as if he would be starting tonight against the Braves.
But it still felt good for Cobb, 24, to get the news Thursday afternoon, validating manager Joe Maddon's message to him after optioning the pitcher to Triple A in spring training.
"When I got sent down, Joe told me I'd be a big part of the season this year," Cobb said. "You never want to get called up due to injury, but it makes me realize that they do have trust me in me and believe that I can fill the spot okay."