Now that the superbowl is over we can all focus on our national pastime. Just seven days until pitchers and catchers report to Bradenton, FL. And 21 days until I head down for coverage.

Here are some Bucco news and notes: 　

• General Manager Neal Huntington told Pirates beat reporter Jenifer Langosch that the pieces are finally in place for the organization to move forward in a positive direction.

“We’ve talked a lot about where we’ve been,” general manager Neal Huntington said. “I feel stronger about our plan. I feel stronger about our vision. I feel stronger about our execution than I’ve ever felt. I stand in front of you more excited about our season than I have ever in the three other times I’ve stood here. We’re beginning to now talk about the Major League team.”

• Pirates catching prospect Tony Sanchez, who arrived at spring training early, caught his first bullpen this season on Monday. He said on twitter, “First time catching pens today since Nov. It’s like riding a bike. Caught Jeff Locke and Hunter Strickland, both looked pretty damn sharp.”

• Have you ever wondered what those semi trucks that are heading down to spring training are full of? Well, MLB Network’s Monday edition of Hot Stove revealed some of the items that the Phillies sent to sunny Florida.

  15 cases of gum (regular and sugarless)

  12 cases of sunflower seeds

  20 coolers

  Half a pallet of powerade mix

  250 batting practice tops

  300 helmets

  250 pairs of shorts

  450 pirates of socks

  600 pairs of pants

  600 hats

  200 fleeces

  1200 bats

  2000 shirts

  10,000 cups

  15,000 baseballs

  150 pairs of gloves