Baseball Beat: Thursday, February 21st

Here is the rundown for the Thursday, February 21st edition of Baseball Beat with Charley Steiner. All times Eastern.

1:05 p.m.
Guest: Tim Kurkjian, ESPN
1:25 p.m.
Guest: Sean McAdam, Providence Journal; ESPN.com
Tune: These Are Better Days by Bruce Springsteen
1:45 p.m.
Guest: David O'Brien, Atlanta Journal-Constitution (Braves Beat)
Tune: NyQuill by Peter Gammons
2:05 p.m.
Guest: Phil Rogers, Chicago Tribune
2:25 p.m.
Guest: Todd Zolecki, Philadelphia Inquirer
Tune: Baby You're a Rich Man by Beatles
2:45 p.m.
Guest: Lyle Spencer, MLB.com (Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim)
Tune: Angel by John Hiatt

Guest Summaries:
Kurkjian discussed national headlines including his work this spring, Joe Torre’s presence with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Tony LaRussa’s challenge of leading an underdog St. Louis Cardinals team, Albert Pujols health, and his thoughts on Ryan Howard’s arbitration win. McAdam discussed the Boston Red Sox including Coco Crisp’s comments about wanting to be traded if he doesn’t start in centerfield, Curt Schilling’s health and contract, the club not counting on Schilling for anything, and Manny Ramirez. O’Brien discussed the Atlanta Braves including Jeff Francoeur and Yunel Escobar being in good shape, Mike Hampton’s health, Brandon Jones in the outfield, and Mark Teixeira’s contract in the final year of his deal. Rogers discussed national headlines and Chicago baseball including the Cubs centerfield position, Ryan Dempster in the rotation, and bullpen questions. Zolecki discussed the Philadelphia Phillies including Ryan Howard winning his arbitration case, his discussion with the media following, Brad Lidge as the team’s closer, and Jimmy Rollins latest comments. Spencer discussed the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim including Vlad Guerrero’s desire to play the outfield, Jon Garland’s impact on the Angels, and Kelvim Escobar’s health.

Tunes Summary:
1:25 p.m.
These Are Better Days by Bruce Springsteen
1:45 p.m.
NyQuill by Peter Gammons
2:25 p.m.
Baby You're a Rich Man by Beatles
2:45 p.m.
Angel by John Hiatt