I was one too same reasoning regarding readiness physically, though once he wasn't here at camp knew he was gone.
Great for him,heck of a year,tremendous person one of my favorite Spits of all time,very personable and humble
Never thought team without him and 6 others who moved on graduation or Zito asking out,leaving Miedema who got traded just past midseason and Abraham who missed 2/3 of the season, only Maggio in the top 10 with points last season played the whole season would finish in 1st again.
Disappointing finish very impressive regular season despite graduations,early pro career(Johnston) and most man games missed due to injury/ illness which unfortunately carried on through the playoffs.