GLENDALE, Ariz. — The White Sox’ aggressive pursuit of low-cost yet well-known bullpen arms continued Sunday with the signing of left-hander Robbie Ross, who joined the club on a minor-league deal with an invitation to spring training.
Ross, 28, who most recently pitched to a 3.82 ERA in three seasons with the Red Sox, was limited to eight appearances in 2017. He was put on the disabled list June 1 with elbow inflammation, had surgery on his back in August and was outrighted by the Red Sox in November.
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Ross owns a 3.92 career ERA in 330⅔ innings between the Red Sox and Rangers and has balanced numbers against left-handed (.712 OPS) and right-handed (.723) hitters.
“It just gives us more depth and makes us better,’’ manager Rick Renteria said.
Among others, the Sox brought Xavier Cedeno, Jeanmar Gomez, Bruce Rondon, Rob Scahill and T.J. House to vie for bullpen jobs in camp as non-roster invitees.
“I’m hoping I can be healthy and strong and show I have the ability to help out with what they need,’’ Ross said. “When I’m at my best, I know I can contend and be in some situations they would need me in.
“Hopefully, I can prove that in the amount of time I have left in spring training. But if it’s too short, maybe I can go to Triple-A and work my way back.’’
Ross said he feels good and has thrown 10 bullpens in recent weeks leading up to camp.
It’s early, but a handful of relievers have looked good in Cactus League appearances:
Gomez, who recorded 37 saves for the Phillies in 2017 (with a 4.85 ERA), is leading the pack. He made his fourth strong appearance in as many Cactus League games Sunday and has allowed no runs, one hit and no walks with seven strikeouts.
Rondon, 27, once considered the Tigers’ closer of the future, struck out all three Royals he faced Saturday in Surprise.
Scahill, 31, who owns a 3.79 ERA in 118 major-league games with three teams, struck out three of the five Royals he faced and has allowed one earned run in three appearances. For what it’s worth, he’s 2-0.
Moustakas not on Sox’ radar
Contrary to various reports that have surfaced in recent weeks — most recently Sunday — the Sox are not showing interest in Scott Boras clients Mike Moustakas and Carlos Gonzalez. While a cheaper, one-year addition might make sense, neither fits in the plan for the Sox, who do not want to forfeit a draft pick or shell out big money before they’re ready to win.
This and that
Right-hander Gregory Infante (shoulder) threw a bullpen session. Infante will continue working on the side, and Renteria expects him to pitch in a game before the end of spring training.
• Yoan Moncada led off a second time, a spot Renteria plans to use him, as well as Adam Engel, in upcoming games. “[Moncada is] happier doing that right now than probably I’ve seen him in a while hitting anywhere else in the lineup,’’ Renteria said.
The spot didn’t like Moncada. He was 0-for-3 with two strikeouts.
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Email: dvanschouwen@suntimes.com