Cubs’ Keegan Thompson gets first start; Brennen Davis exits with bruised knee

Cubs 3, Reds 2

Thompson gets first start

Right-hander Keegan Thompson has a ramp-up plan: stay healthy.

“I’m not going to move any quicker than I should,” Thompson said. “I think that’s the big thing for everyone here. We’re not trying to rush. We’re just trying to build up as safely as possible.”

He got off on the right foot Monday, allowing two hits and striking out three in two scoreless innings.

Thompson made his major-league debut last season. The Cubs planned to build him up to starter’s innings toward the end of the year. But, concerned about his workload, the club ended up shutting him down the last week after several short starts. He went on the injured list twice in September for right-shoulder inflammation.

Davis exits

Cubs top prospect Brennen Davis left with a bruised right knee. He was hit with a pitch in the second inning. He stayed in for a couple of batters but then was replaced on the bases. The Cubs labeled his availability as day-to-day. Davis is batting .333 in Cactus League play.

Hicks stays hot

Non-roster invitee John Hicks picked up his third hit of the spring (3-for-5) to tie the score in the eighth inning. His ground-rule double hopped over the fence in right-center, driving in minor-leaguer Donnie Dewees, who got on base with a triple.

On deck

Cubs at Mariners, Peoria, 3:05 p.m, Marquee, Kyle Hendricks vs. Robbie Ray.

— Maddie Lee