That’s more like it
Right-hander Dylan Covey’s Cactus League start Saturday against the Indians had been on the schedule for several days, but it took on added significance when left-hander Carlos Rodon (biceps) became doubtful to open the season in the starting rotation.
Enter Covey, a Rule 5 draft pick taken from the Athletics in December. He entered his start with a 10.13 ERA this spring but was a candidate to fill the void nonetheless. Against the Indians, he attacked the strike zone and pitched 3⅔ scoreless innings (44 pitches). He struck out three.
‘‘My last couple of outings, I was definitely feeling the stress,’’ Covey said. ‘‘I was pitching a little passive instead of going right after guys. So I thought, ‘I’m just going to throw every pitch with conviction and see what happens.’ I got a lot of weak contact and some swings-and-misses.’’
Deep six
The Sox hit a spring-high six home runs, including a go-ahead grand slam in the ninth by Class AAA first baseman Danny Hayes, who is batting .351 and is tied with Yoan Moncada for the team lead with 13 RBI. Jose Abreu, Jacob May (.365), Cody Asche, Nicky Delmonico and Everth Cabrera also homered. Asche (.316), who might make the team, and Delmonico each have a team-high four homers.
Bullpen beatings
Michael Ynoa (6.08 ERA), who is fighting to make the team, allowed three runs in 1⅓ innings. And 2016 first-round pick Zack Burdi had his second consecutive rough outing, yielding four runs in two-thirds of an inning.
On deck
Giants at Sox, Glendale, 3:05 p.m., CSN+, Ty Blach vs. James Shields.
RELATED STORIES
Jose Quintana focused despite trade rumors
Carlos Rodon to get second opinion Monday
