Mizzou in the Minors & Majors

■ Jim Callis Chat (Baseball America, March 16)

Jeremy (Washington, DC): What do you make of Aaron Crow's spring? Was last year just an aberration?

Jim Callis: I don't pay much attention to spring stats, but I do think last year was an aberration. Even when he struggled last year, scouts said his stuff was still quite good. With all the pitching depth the Royals have in the minors, maybe Crow winds up in their bullpen, but I still believe he'll be a good big leaguer.

■ Mathis battling for roster spot (cbssports.com)

Cleveland RP Doug Mathis impressed manager Manny Acta after his performance on Monday against Chicago. Mathis, who signed with the Indians in January, threw two scoreless innings in a game where the wind messed with every pitcher except Mathis. Acta said it was a miracle Mathis didn't give up a run in a game that ended with the score tied at 16. "Doug's value is that he's been a starter and can pitch out of the bullpen," Acta said. "He's battling for one of those spots where guys can throw multiple innings."

■ Tigers in the professional ranks, Part 2 (mutigers.com)