Probably the feel-good story of spring training thus far has been the return of Evan Marshall, who nearly died in a game for the Reno Aces last August, but has made his way back to be in serious contention for a spot in the Diamondbacks' bullpen next month. In the latest edition of Cactus League Weekly on Fox Sports Arizona, Marshall sat down with Jody Jackson to talk about that night in El Paso, and the long rehab process back to the mound. [Warning: some moments may cause eye irritation, shall we say!] Considering that there was significant doubt as to whether Marshall would ever walk again, it's almost miraculous to see him facing major-league hitters once more.
And not just facing them - getting them out, with Marshall having thrown six scoreless innings of three-hit ball this spring (he is now wearing a protective insert made of carbon-fiber, to help protect his head). The accident also seems, understandably, to have given Evan a new zest for life and the game. He said earlier this week, "I'm just so excited to be back out there, able to throw the ball again. Maybe that's the key. I'm just excited to play baseball and having fun with the game. It's fun out there. I'm not really worried about little things or making the team. Yeah, I want to make the team, but really I'm just happy to be here." We are very happy you're here too, Evan!
Bonus clippage: more from Marshall, talking on Coyotes Live [Footage from Fox Sports Arizona]