White Sox’ Fulmer modeling himself after Sunday foe, Giants’ Bumgarner

Carson Fulmer is five inches shorter and 55 pounds lighter than Madison Bumgarner.

But when it comes to competing on every pitch and attaining the highest levels of success, the White Sox rookie wants to model himself after the Giants’ ace. Fulmer will oppose the 2014 World Series MVP on Sunday afternoon in his second career start to conclude a weekend series.

“He’s had a ton of success, and there’s a reason for that,” said Fulmer, 23. “I’m a baseball fan. I respect guys who take care of business. I think that’s how I model myself — being competitive, being a good teammate and making sure that I give it everything I have each time I step on the mound.

“That’s what Bumgarner does. I’ve watched him a lot growing up, and having the opportunity to pitch against him is something special and something I’ll always remember.”

Fulmer’s first start was something to forget as the Twins pelted him for six runs in 1„ innings Aug.  21. He has fared better in two relief appearances this month (4‰ innings, one earned run).

“I’m feeling really comfortable,” Fulmer said. “A couple of weeks ago was my first start ever, and I know what it’s like now. My last couple of outings have been really good. I’ve been able to command a lot of things. My main goal is to continue to keep things simple and go out there and make sure that every pitch counts.”

A season-ending injury to Carlos Rodon could mean a few more starting opportunities for Fulmer. Manager Rick Renteria said Fulmer, Dylan Covey, Mike Pelfrey and David Holmberg could receive looks at the back end of the rotation.

Glove love

Adam Engel has struggled at the plate in his rookie season, but coaches and teammates have appreciated his consistency and highlight-reel ability on defense.

“Adam can save you quite a few runs,” Renteria said. “He can run balls down that most other guys can’t.

‘‘He’s obviously a tremendously gifted center fielder.”

Renteria said Engel remained a work in progress on offense but has worked hard on his swing path.

“I think he’s just trying to get comfortable with who he is as a hitter,” Renteria said.

Rock steady

More than a month after his Hall of Fame induction, Tim Raines still has trouble believing it happened.

“It feels surreal,” said Raines, who returned to Guaranteed Rate Field as part of a day in his honor. “I’m humbled. It was a long time coming. For a while, I didn’t think it could happen.”

Raines played for the Sox from 1991 to 1995 after spending his first 12 seasons with the Montreal Expos. He said the Sox could’ve won the World Series in 1994 if not for a work stoppage.

Follow me on Twitter @tcmusick.

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