advertisement

Dunn plays starring role, Sox beat Reds

GOODYEAR, Ariz. - Adam Dunn hit a pair of RBI singles and the White Sox beat a split squad of Cincinnati Reds 4-3 Friday.

Dunn returned to the White Sox this week after attending the Academy Awards ceremony in California last weekend. He had a nonspeaking role in the Oscar-nominated "Dallas Buyers Club."

Dunn's first single came off Mike Leake, who was making his first spring start. Dunn later broke a 3-all tie in the fifth.

Jay Bruce homered in the Reds first off Felipe Paulino. Bruce added a double in the fifth and also made a throw from right field to cut down Jeff Keppinger at third base.

"Jay's was a blast," acting manager Jay Bell said. "It is fun to see his timing. His timing is really good right now and we have three weeks left. Jay is going to be fun to watch this summer."

Aroldis Chapman pitched two innings for the Reds, allowing a run and two hits. He struck out three.

Paulino is trying for a spot in the White Sox rotation. He allowed three runs but struck out five in three innings, finishing strong.

"Everybody is competing for a spot," White Sox manager Robin Ventura said. "You can just hand one to somebody. I think everybody understands where they're at but you still have to come down here and earn a spot in the rotation."

Paulino missed all of 2013 while recovering from surgery on his right elbow. He was limited to seven rehabilitation starts last season in the Kansas City organization.

"It feels good to be back on the mound. Things will come together soon," he said. "I missed some spots, mechanically. Bruce hit a pitch down and away. That's going to happen."

Paulino gave up four runs on eight hits in 1⅔ innings in his first spring start but had no lingering effects or soreness between starts. "I am feeling great. I like how I recovered over the last four days," Paulino said.

Adam Eaton doubled, walked and scored two runs against the Reds. He is trying to win the leadoff spot in the order. Eaton has six hits in 10 at-bats in five games.

Reds catcher Brayan Pena walked to lead off the fourth inning. The Cuban native has two career stolen bases, but has been caught four times.

Sox pitcher David Purcey ignored him and he took off for second. The attempt was delayed and second baseman Gordon Beckham and shortstop Alexei Ramirez failed to cover the bag, letting catcher Tyler Flowers' throw go into center field as Pena advanced to third.

Article Comments
Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.