Camp report: Chase Anderson will be the Brewers' initial 'out-getter' in their Cactus League opener

On the field: The rain and cold continued Friday, forcing the Brewers to be flexible again regarding workouts. The parts they were able to get done took place in the stadium and on the Miller Park replica field, presumably because of better drainage.

"We're going to take the day with the most important things first and everything we can do, we'll do," manager Craig Counsell said. "The pitchers are going to throw the live BPs first, then if we get through that we'll go to infielders taking ground balls, and then. ...

"It's minute-to-minute."

The rain eventually stopped, but temperatures are expected to be cool again Saturday when the Brewers open their Cactus League slate against the Chicago Cubs in Mesa.

Hitters have seen precious few live pitches, and only a small group of pitchers have actually thrown to hitters. Among those is Chase Anderson, who will start and pitch the first inning against the Cubs.

"You do have to add a little bit of caution to the players on some things – stay under control, you're a little concerned position player-wise with some of the long, hard throws. But we're good."

Counsell said catcher Manny Piña, first baseman Eric Thames and utility men Cory Spangenberg and Tyler Saladino are among the group of position players who will see action. Minor-league outfielders Tristan Lutz and Trent Grisham are expected to play later in the game, along with several minor-league pitchers.

Weather: 45 degrees, rain.

Scoreboard: First Cactus League game, Saturday vs. Cubs in Mesa, 2:05 p.m.

Cactus juice: Counsell talked early in camp about "leveraging" the Brewers' renovated facilities in Maryvale. How does he think the organization has done so far?

"I think what it's created is it's opened up communication very well. Lots more interaction within all parts of the organization," he said. "That's been the best part for sure so far. Everybody's closer. We've taken advantage of the classroom space quite a bit, so that's been helpful.

"I think the weight room's really joined the players together from both sides and allowed player-development guys to see major-league guys, which is a good thing."

Countdown: 33 days until the Brewers’ season opener March 28 vs. St. Louis at Miller Park.