March 09--Cleverly themed T-shirts, a 1970s van, karaoke singing and an electric guitarist have highlighted some of the frequent antics prior to Chicago Cubs workouts.
But manager Joe Maddon admitted the chore of keeping his players loose with these stunts on a frequent basis is challenging.
"It's becoming a struggle," Maddon said after a guitarist played prior to Tuesday's workout. "The struggle is coming up with new ideas to entertain them. As you go farther along, it will slow down a bit."
Maddon has been aided by conditioning coach Tim Buss, who has played a prominent role in virtually all of the skits.
Buss "pays attention and hears conversations," Maddon said. "So watch what you say because he'll nail you.
Prior to Tuesday's workout, Buss dressed in catcher's gear with a black cap, headphones and a backpack.
The victim was catcher Taylor Davis. Maddon said Buss was imitating Davis, flaunting his front leg kick before he swings and pointing out that Davis hit a foul ball Monday that nearly nailed the son of general manager Jed Hoyer.
