1st day of practice

The Broncos held their first day of preseason practice on Tuesday at Veterans.

It was a busy day for them, as they also signed starting RHP Ryan Harris, who was the ULB Pitcher of the Year in 2006.

In 10 minor league seasons, Harris, 34, is 64-46 with a 4.30 ERA and 783 strikeouts to 373 walks (2.1 strikeouts per walk).

Harris will compete with Gregorio Martinez for the No. 1 starter's spot.

Maximo de la Cruz is expected to be the No. 3 and Tano Tijerina is slated to be the No. 5. The No 4 spot, obviously, is open.

On Tuesday, 20 Broncos were on hand to begin practice.

Broncos GM Jose Melendez said there are some delays with players, including core players Selwyn Langaigne and Luis Ugueto.

Langaigne is expected to arrive Sunday, while Ugueto is having visa issues and is not expected to be in town until June 12.

Left-handed relievers Edgar Soto and Carlos Alvarez are also having visa issues and are not expected until June 15, the team’s home opener against San Angelo.

“We’re not expecting any serious problems at all,” Melendez said. “They’ll all get approved (to come); it’s just taking a little longer than expected.”

Melendez is fairly confident about his team's pitching this year.

The bullpen boasts depth and power arms and he is expecting strong competition for spots.

One of Melendez's priorities during preseason camp is to search hard for locals with talent.

I'll be at practice on Wednesday so I'll have a better idea of what's going on, who's been doing what and what team management thinks about invitees.