Spring-training recap: Padres 5, Cubs 1
BY GORDON WITTENMYER gwittenmyer@suntimes.com March 24, 2012 7:42PM
Related Stories
Updated: April 26, 2012 8:29AM
PADRES 5, CUBS 1
For the record
Struggling Travis Wood had his best start of the spring, throwing three scoreless innings before allowing three runs in his final inning. Two of them scored after he left the game with one out. “I was able to slow down today, my pitches were working good and I had some good defensive plays behind me,’’ he said. ‘‘[I] just overall felt good.’’
Short story
Second baseman Darwin Barney got his third — and likely last — start of the spring at shortstop in preparation for possible emergency work as Starlin Castro’s backup. After committing two errors in his previous start, he handled five chances Saturday, including starting a double play.
Rule 5 watch
Rule 5 pitcher Lendy Castillo, a converted shortstop who never has pitched above Class A, pitched another scoreless inning, lowering his ERA to 3.12. But he also walked two, giving him nine for the spring to go with 10 strikeouts. Sveum said he has a bona fide shot at a bullpen job. ‘‘He’s doing as well as anybody in camp,’’ Sveum said. ‘‘He’s showed a lot of poise. The only things he’s hiccupped on is a few [fielding issues] and signs, but as far as stuff on the mound, he’s been outstanding for a young kid.’’
On deck
Cubs (10-13) at Indians (6-13), 3:05 p.m., Ch. 9, 720-AM. Rodrigo Lopez, James Russell, Frankie de la Cruz and Blake Parker are schedule to pitch.
Gordon Wittenmyer
