With Gavin Floyd out, John Danks eager to return
BY TONI GINNETTI tginnetti@suntimes.com April 28, 2013 9:30PM
Chicago White Sox starting pitcher John Danks delivers against the San Francisco Giants in the second inning of an exhibition spring training baseball game Monday, March 4, 2013, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)
Related Stories
Updated: April 29, 2013 2:20AM
John Danks would like nothing more than to return quickly, especially with Gavin Floyd now out with a strained flexor muscle near the right elbow.
But first will come a rehab assignment starting Thursday at Class AA Birmingham against Chattanooga.
“It’s one step closer to getting back,’’ Danks said.
Danks said it was “hard to watch’’ Floyd leave the field Saturday.
“I don’t know the extent of his injury, but we all hope he is okay. I’m ready. I’m ready to get back out there. Maybe that will move the process along a little quicker, I don’t know. As far as my recovery [from shoulder surgery last season], I’m on the right path.’’
Danks said his last throwing session “wasn’t as sharp, but I felt good and had decent stuff.’’ He has felt no discomfort while throwing or on the days after throwing.
Kep coming back
Jeff Keppinger (back spasms) should be well enough by Tuesday to return to action, manager Robin Ventura said. He has been out since Friday and getting treatment but wasn’t available to play Sunday.
Catch up with A.J.
The Sox saw former catcher A.J. Pierzynski with his new team, the Texas Rangers, in games during spring training, but their first regular-season meeting will be this Tuesday.
“When you hit the regular-season games, they mean more,’’ Ventura said. “I don’t know if it makes it any less strange or more strange — but it will be good to see him.
“I don’t have to bat, so I don’t have to listen [to him].’’
Danks said it has been strange seeing Pierzynski in another uniform.
“I saw him opening night when they were playing Houston,” he said. “It was weird seeing him back there. Fun to watch him, but kind of weird to not see him in a White Sox uniform.’’
Roster move
After Sunday’s game, the Sox optioned Blake Tekotte to Class AAA Charlotte. Another player will be recalled Tuesday for the three-game series in Texas.
