Liriano dials back in preparation for first spring game

By JOE CHRISTENSEN, Star Tribune

Last update: March 5, 2008 - 12:14 AM

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FORT MYERS, FLA. - Twins pitcher Francisco Liriano said Tuesday that he is trying to tame his violent pitching motion, at least for spring training.

The lefthander threw pain-free for about 45 pitches in a live batting practice session, likely his final step before appearing in an exhibition game.

"I'm trying not to let it go," he said. "That's the way I throw when I try to take it easy."

On a scale of 1-to-10, Liriano said he pushed himself to about 8, giving him a couple of notches to go.

"I'm going to save that for April," he said. "I'm going to keep throwing like that the whole spring and see how it feels."

Facing Twins hitters Brendan Harris, Jose Morales and Jon Knott, Liriano looked sharp with his fastball and changeup, but his slider was wild and ineffective.

"I have to be careful with my slider," Liriano said. "I'm scared to let it go. I want to take it easy, keep working to get better."

One notable difference in Liriano's motion is in his follow-through. It looks more under control.

"We all know how violent he was," Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said. "It's just not normal when a pitcher's butt is facing the plate after he throws the ball.''

The Twins know Liriano might return to his old habits once he gets into a tough situation in a meaningful game. But the 2006 All-Star is 15 months removed from Tommy John elbow surgery, and the team is trying to show him how effective he can be when under control.

"When he gets out for his first game, you may see something totally different," Gardenhire said. "When the adrenaline starts flowing, you may see the guy just flying all over the place."

The Twins could find out by week's end, as Liriano likely will pitch in a game Thursday or Friday.

"I'm ready," he said. "I don't know what the next step is; they haven't told me yet."

Staff writer La Velle E. Neal III contributed to this report.

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