In Phoenix, Nick Piecoro reports the D-backs "officially will unveil a humidor" for the '18 season. The humidor -- a "climate-controlled chamber in which baseballs are stored -- could drastically impact how hard balls are hit and, as a result, how far they travel." The D-backs have been "kicking around the idea of implementing a humidor off and on" since '10. The D-backs will "become the second team to employ a humidor," following the Rockies (ARIZONA REPUBLIC, 2/14).
STAYING FOCUSED: In Houston, Hunter Atkins notes the Astros are so "intent on concentrating attention toward the months ahead" that they "prohibited media access when pitchers and catchers officially reported to camp" yesterday. Some teams "allowed reporters at their spring training facilities last week." Astros GM Jeff Luhnow said of limiting access, "Don't take it personal. It's going to be because we have to stay focused" (HOUSTON CHRONICLE, 2/14).
GOOD TIMING: In Detroit, Bill Shea wrote the Tigers' 50th anniversary of the '68 championship team is a "centerpiece" of their marketing efforts this season. The milestone is "particularly important for the Tigers because they're deep into a rebuilding effort." While the Tigers have a "full season of various promotions scheduled," the 50th anniversary plans are the the "most significant and so far include giveaways such as tote bags, jerseys, socks and pennants." The Tigers will also "give away 40,000 bobbleheads of still-living 1968 stars this season" (CRAIN'S DETROIT BUSINESS, 2/12 issue).
