Sox’ Crain makes gains but still not ready
Oblique strains are common for pitchers because of all the bending and rotating that goes into the craft.
They are frustrating injuries and can be slow to heal.
Last season White Sox starting pitcher John Danks was out for almost a month with a left-oblique strain.
This season Sox relief pitcher Jesse Crain is dealing with the same injury. Eligible to come off the 15-day disabled list Sunday, Crain figures to be out significantly longer.
The right-hander was scheduled to throw off the mound Thursday and possibly map out plans for a minor-league rehab assignment.
Crain, off to a solid start with a 2.73 ERA and 10 strikeouts in 7 innings, had to settle for throwing 10-15 pitches off flat ground.
“It went all right,” he said. “I wasn’t ready to throw off the mound. But it’s a step forward from where I was two days ago. I feel like it’s working its way out.
“I’m not sure what my next plan is. Maybe toss again tomorrow and throw off a mound Saturday.”
Crain had to deal with a strained right oblique in spring training. The strain on the left side is actually worse.
“I think it might be tougher to come back from,” he said. “When I follow through, I’m going all the way down and taking my left side.”
Crain said he’s actually optimistic because he felt better than he did after throwing Tuesday. “The other day when I was done throwing, it felt very tight and sensitive,” he said. “Today, it doesn’t feel quite like that. So I think it’s a step forward.”
Reed rolling:
White Sox reliever Addison Reed gave up a run-scoring double to Jack Hannahan in Wednesday night’s loss to the Cleveland Indians.
The run was charged to Will Ohman, so Reed increased his scoreless appearance streak to 11 games. With a big fastball and biting slider, Reed figures to assume the Sox’ closer’s role at some point this season.
For now, manager Robin Ventura has been using the rookie right-hander in setup situations.
“He’s got good velocity, the location’s been great, presence when he goes on the mound,” Ventura said of Reed. “He’s easy to call on.”
Third wheel:
Eduardo Escobar made his second start of the season at third base Thursday night, and the natural shortstop didn’t look out of place.
Manager Robin Ventura still is sticking with Brent Morel (.188/.226/.213 hitting line) as the regular starter at third.
“I don’t like (Escobar) sitting for two and three weeks at a time,” Ventura said. “It’s just a chance to get him in there and see some action. Escobar needs to get in there and play. It’s not like he’s going to be playing there for a week straight, but I need him to at least get some time.”