TEMPE, Ariz. — The White Sox’ two key offseason additions to their lineup displayed some pop in a 7-6 Cactus League victory Saturday against the Los Angeles Angels.
Adam LaRoche, the free-agent cleanup man/DH/first baseman, hit a grand slam against Cory Rasmus and a sacrifice fly against lefty Andrew Heaney for a five-RBI day as the White Sox improved to 4-6-2 in Cactus League play. Melky Cabrera (.316), the other free-agent addition to the lineup, had three singles in the first four innings.
Micah Johnson continued to strengthen his grip on the lead for the second base job by going 3-for-4 with two runs scored and an RBI. If he gets on base with regularity when the real games begin, Johnson’s speed will play nicely in the No. 9 spot of the Sox lineup in front of leadoff man Adam Eaton.
Former first-round pick Courtney Hawkins (who won’t make the team) continued his good spring (.450, four RBI) with an RBI double to the wall, and center fielder Trayce Thompson threw out Mark Krauss at home to complete a double play.
Brad Penny, 36, who is getting extra looks because of Chris Sale’s injury, is doing all he can to keep them coming. The former All-Star (3.52 ERA) allowed one run over 3 2/3 innings, although he was touched for five hits and a walk. Penny is trying to add a cutter to his repertoire. It’s a Don Cooper favorite, but Penny has picked up tips over the years from all over the place, including Mariano Rivera.
“It’s kind of a feel thing and everybody does it a little different,’’ Penny said.
Note: The Sox game against the Cubs at Camelback Ranch on Friday is sold out.
On deck: Sunday, Angels at Sox at Glendale (3:05, 670-AM), Hector Santiago vs. John Danks
