Two White Sox Spring Games In...

Okay, I know it's Spring Training. I know these games don't matter all that much in the long run, but its really helpful to watch these position battles develop. It always helps to know how well these kids can hit and pitch against major-league level stuff.

The first game:

Angels 12, White Sox 3

Simply put, there was a lot of rust going on here for the White Sox. Our 3, 4, and 5 hitters enjoyed an unproductive day. No hits anywhere to be found. Let's just call that some rust.

Good news, however, can be found in Clayton Richard's stat line. Two scoreless innings of work with a walk really starts his campaign for the 5th starter slot well. Of course, Richard is known for not lasting past the 5th inning consistently in the past and two innings of work is not going to alleviate that. I look forward to seeing more of his work though because he has a high ceiling.

From what I hear, Jerry Owens starting in Center went decently well defensively. Owens has plenty of speed, but he really needs to gain defensive ability to maintain a spot all season.

Second game:

White Sox 4, Rockies 1

Great pitching today. Period. Floyd provided a solid two innings of work while giving up a sac fly run. Carrasco and Broadway were impressive in their innings of work as well. Broadway might be a dark horse for the 5th starter spot, but I'd perfer him to man the bullpen this year.

A lot of new and young hitters showed some decent skills today as well. Stolen bases from Lillibridge, Beckham and Allen give me hope that we can play some type of small ball this year. I REALLY like Beckham's ability, I just don't know where we can put him this year in the infield. Corky Miller made a great debut with the Sox in his campaign to earn the backup catcher slot. He went 3 for 3 and apparently called a great game for the pitching staff.

There are some things to look forward to here in the Spring. We will be better than what the pundits are predicting for us.