Good morning, White Sox fans!
As you sip your Sunday morning coffee, here are some Saturday storylines you may have missed.
Mike Moustakas’ comments ahead of spring debut
Before Saturday’s Cactus League game, Mike Moustakas commented on the importance of his performance this spring.
“I need to be out there ready to go. I can’t wait around and try to feel comfortable and get some at-bats to get ready for the season. I have to make the club so I have to be prepared from pitch one on.”
“Every game, every pitch, every at-bat matters. I have to go out there and show what I can still do.”
via Chuck Garfien/NBC Sports Chicago
Moustakas went on to back up his talk by making an exceptional catch down the right-field line.
Nastrini, Bush expected to throw on Monday, February 26th
White Sox pitching prospects Nick Nastrini and Ky Bush are expected to make their spring debuts on Monday against the Texas Rangers. Both arms are expected to throw two innings a piece.
For those unfamiliar with Nastrini, who was acquired from the Dodgers in the Lance Lynn/Joe Kelly trade this past summer, check out his interview with us on the Sox On 35th Podcast a few weeks ago.
Michael Kopech seeing the ball “jump” out of his hand
White Sox right-hander Michael Kopech shared a positive update with reporters.
Pedro Grifol praises Oscar Colas’ hustle
If you were watching Friday’s Cactus League opener, then you may have seen Oscar Colas beat out an infield single.
White Sox skipper Pedro Grifol praised the right fielder for this and continued to preach this as being the team’s brand of baseball.
John Brebbia not ruling out Opening Day
Newly signed right-hander John Brebbia is hopeful that he’ll be ready in time for Opening Day.
The right-hander told reporters that he’s progressing daily with his strained right calf, and while he’s wearing a boot, he is optimistic about being ready to go by the season.
The Sodfather sets a new record at Guaranteed Rate
Given the warm weather in Chicago, Roger Bossard has turned of the irrigation system for the first time ever in the month of February at Sox Park.
Kevin Pillar’s battle for a roster spot
The Chicago Tribune’s Lamond Pope detailed Kevin Pillar’s fight for an Opening Day roster spot in a recent article.
“You always admire how he played the game,” Grifol said. “How selfless he played it. What I mean by that, he’s an ultimate team guy. But he also threw his body around to do whatever it takes for the team.”
Miscellaneous Sights and Sounds
More must-reads: