Jose Abreu collects two hits in first Cactus League gameDaryl Van Schouwenon March 3, 2021 at 7:39 am

After missing the start of spring training because of a positive coronavirus test, Abreu had two hits in his first game.

Sox 5, Rangers 5 (6)

Strong start for Abreu

Delayed to camp because of a positive coronavirus test, Jose Abreu played his first game only three days after joining the team. The reigning American League MVP went 2-for-3 with a single in the first, scoring on Andrew Vaughn’s three-run home run against Kohei Arihara, and he doubled in a run.

“I can’t give you an exact number [of how many at-bats I need], but I can tell you that if Opening Day would be tomorrow, I would be ready for it,” Abreu said.

“I felt a little weird, like a little out of place, but it was a good experience. I felt good overall. I battled in my at-bats, and what mattered the most for me is I was able to get the first game of the spring.”

The Sox’ record is 0-1-2.

Catching on

Jonathan Lucroy, who has been catching Lucas Giolito a lot in live batting practice and bullpens, caught Giolito and collected two hits, including a double down the left-field line. Lucroy also ran into an out at third after the double.

“The targets, the pitch-calling was fantastic,” said Giolito, who pitched to James McCann most often last season. “I’m looking forward to working with him more.”

Moncada at full strength

Yoan Moncada, who had been working through normal spring arm soreness, was back at full tilt playing third base. He doubled and scored two runs. “His stroke looks really good on both sides of the plate,” manager Tony La Russa said. “He’s moving well.”

Rough one for Burdi

Zack Burdi walked two and allowed two hits, including a homer to Joey Gallo.

On deck

Sox at Royals, 2:05 p.m. Wednesday, Surprise, Kade McClure vs. Carlos Hernandez. Upcoming starters: Thursday, Lance Lynn at Giants; Friday, Jonathan Stiever vs. Mariners; Saturday, Reynaldo Lopez at Indians.

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