Nix back, competing for job at second base

PEORIA, Ariz. - Jayson Nix is back in the race for the White Sox' starting job at second base.

Returning to the field Friday after missing a week with a strained right quadriceps, Nix was 0-for-3 in the Sox' 15-4 Cactus League win over San Diego.

"I don't care how long spring training is," said Nix, who signed a one-year, $400,000 contract with the White Sox on Oct. 24 after leaving Colorado as a six-year minor-league free agent. "I just don't like missing time."

The time missed likely hurt Nix, who is battling Chris Getz, Brent Lillibridge and now Gordon Beckham for playing time.

"It feels like it has been forever, but I'm glad to be back," Nix said. "I don't pay attention to what's going on. I was just trying to get healthy and focus on what I'm doing."

Thome update: Jim Thome said his sore back is feeling better, but the Sox are taking the cautious approach with the 38-year-old designated hitter. Thome wants to play today, but it looks like he won't be back until Sunday at the earliest.

"He was better, but I let him know just take it easy," manager Ozzie Guillen said." He's been getting treatment for a couple of days, but I don't think we should take the risk and play him (Saturday). It's not worth it."

Floyd flourishing: Starter Gavin Floyd turned in another sharp outing Friday, pitching 4 innings and allowing 2 runs on 2 hits. Floyd also impressed manager Ozzie Guillen by pulling back a bunt attempt and chopping an infield single that set up the White Sox' 6-run fourth inning.

"I think Gavin was the player of the game, defensively and offensively," Guillen said. "He threw the ball real well and he continues to get better and better. I mean this kid, every time he goes out there it feels like we have a chance to win. He threw the ball unbelievably good.

"To me, all the players should take a look at that (hit). With the infield in, I told him to swing the bat and he made a big contribution. He did a lot of good things today."

Jack's back: Jack Egbert, a top pitching prospect before battling elbow soreness last season, pitched 1 scoreless inning against San Diego on Friday.

The 25-year-old righty hasn't allowed a run in 9 Cactus League innings.

"We're keeping a close eye on him because of the arm problems he's had in the past," manager Ozzie Guillen said. "But he continues to impress everyone. Every minute we have, we talk about him. We want to see what he can do. This kid's problem is health. If he stays healthy ... that's the first time I've seen him in spring training throw the ball that well."