The Los Angeles Dodgers played their final Cactus League game of the year without several expected regulars in the lineup. Instead, manager Dave Roberts got another look at those vying for a spot on the club’s Opening Day roster.
Sprinkled in between were players, such as Austin Barnes and Chase Utley, who are in line for time off the bench this season. But they started against the Chicago White Sox and each made an impact.
White Sox starter Hector Santiago was in immediate trouble in the bottom of the first inning as he gave up a leadoff double to Utley and promptly walked Kiké Hernandez. Then with one out, Barnes took Santiago deep to left field for a three-run home run.
The homer was Barnes’ first of Spring Training and a welcomed sight considering his struggles at the plate. His quiet production at the plate presumably played a role in Roberts recently saying Grandal is expected to receive the bulk of the starts at catcher.
With their 3-0 lead still intact, Utley helped Alex Wood’s cause by making a terrific diving stop on a ball hit to his left, completing the play for the final out of the inning. While the Dodgers re-signed Utley in large part for his leadership, the veteran will be relied on as Justin Turner remains sidelined by a left wrist fracture.
The Man's still got it. #DodgersST pic.twitter.com/SYmwJMdVKB
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) March 24, 2018
As for matters on the mound, Wood sailed through the first four innings before coming unglued in the fifth. He retired 11 of the first 12 batters faced, only to lose command of his fastball and break on his curveball in the fifth inning.
The result was the White Sox stringing hits together and ultimately taking a lead they never relinquished.
