Ventura is happy, comfortable heading into second season

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With the uncertainty of his first season out of the way, White Sox manager Robin Ventura made it clear Wednesday hes excited to return.

Ventura admits he needed to feel out his new position in 2012 after he took over for long-time skipper Ozzie Guillen. As Ventura waded his way through the season, speculation arose he might not be interested in managing long term. But Ventura, who spoke during a Wednesday morning visit to the Gilda Club, a free cancer support community for men, women and children, said he is ready to get his second season underway.

White Sox pitchers and catchers will report to the teams Glendale, Ariz. facility and hold their first workout on Feb. 12.

Im excited to do what I do, said Ventura, who finished third in the American League manager of the year vote in 2012. I love it. Last year there was a little bit of the unknown that went into it. This year I know what it is, I know who Im working for. I love where Im at and Im excited. I like the team we have. Im ready to get to spring training.

A first time anything when it came to the coaching staff, Ventura had plenty to learn last season. The former third basemans experience outside the announcers booth was restricted to one season as a minor-league instructor, which meant Ventura had to start from the beginning after he was a surprise hire in November 2011. With all those introductions out of the way, its not a surprise Ventura feels much more comfortable this time around.

Its a different feeling for me, Ventura said. Last year was more of meeting everybody and making sure plans were put in order for spring training. Im more confident for that stuff now.I didnt know that I liked it last year because I hadnt done it yet. But yeah, I enjoy what Im doing, and again, I like where Im at as far as who Im working for. Im lucky to have a great staff. Thats very important. When you like who you are working with, it makes your job easier.

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