Brian Bruney has dropped significant weight. He says he lost 18 pounds and should be down 20 before the season. He wanted to get to 240 and is at 237, and looks even leaner.

“I’m just in all-around better shape. … I’ve never really pitched in good physical shape before. I’ve always been kind of average. I knew going in that Joe (Girardi) was kind of a stickler for that, so that was one reason, but mostly I just wanted to do it for myself.” (Source)

A leaner Brian Bruney could mean better mechanics and better control (his main problem: 6.48 BB/9 in ‘07). He has always had the stuff to get guys out, but, by his own admission, he’s never had the body. Maybe this year is when Bruney, who’ll turn 26 on Sunday, will put it all together.

Also, how great is it that the presence of Girardi inspired Bruney to lose the weight? With Torre he was perfectly fine coming to camp weighing 255+, but apparently he thought Girardi would be awake during camp.