Zack Greinke has been pitching with diminished velocity this spring, a development that has become concerning.

"It's still early," Greinke said. "It is what it is. It's still early and it's not like some crazy, crazy thing. But it's not ideal, either."

Last year, Greinke's fastball topped out at 93 mph in his second start of the spring. On Wednesday, his fastball was as high as 89.5 mph.

Greinke began his throwing program later this year than he did in previous springs and he seemed hopeful that was part of the explanation for the dip in velocity.

"Stuff has taken a dip even since last year," a rival scout said. "hopefully it's just spring training and he's working into shape. It wasn't good today."