Full Breakdown
White Sox Secure 6-0 Victory Over Diamondbacks in Spring Training
3/7/2026, 12:38:42 PM
Anthony Kay's Strong Performance on the Mound
In a recent spring training game, the Chicago White Sox defeated the Arizona Diamondbacks 6-0, showcasing a notable performance from left-hander Anthony Kay. Despite a shaky start where he loaded the bases with one out in the first inning, Kay managed to settle down, ultimately completing three innings with two hits allowed, no runs, two walks, and two strikeouts. Kay remarked on his early struggles, stating, “I just struggled to get in a groove very early on... But, thankfully, I was able to settle in and not give up any runs.” This outing marks a significant return for Kay, who has not pitched in the majors since 2023 and spent the last three seasons in Japan. He expressed enthusiasm about rejoining Major League Baseball, saying, “Japan is great, but it’s not the big leagues. I’m really excited to be here.”
Roster Updates and Contract Signings
Following the game, the White Sox announced that 31 of their 32 pre-arbitration-eligible players signed one-year contracts. Notably, infielder Miguel Vargas's contract was renewed at $805,700. Among the top earners were pitchers Tyler Gilbert at $900,000 and Shane Smith at $825,900, alongside infielder Lenyn Sosa at $803,550. The remaining signees on the 40-man roster include a mix of pitchers, catchers, infielders, and outfielders, ensuring a robust lineup for the upcoming season.
Managerial Decisions and Roster Moves
In conjunction with the game, White Sox manager Will Venable confirmed ten roster moves, including the optioning of right-hander Duncan Davitt to Triple-A Charlotte. Other players reassigned to minor-league camp included righties Mason Adams, Adisyn Coffey, Tyler Davis, Zach Franklin, and Jairo Iriarte, as well as left-hander Shane Murphy and several infielders. The current camp roster now consists of 57 players, including 30 pitchers.
Broader Context of Spring Training
The White Sox's victory comes amid a busy spring training schedule, with manager Venable noting the benefits of players participating in international competitions, such as the World Baseball Classic. He highlighted the performance of Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami, who played for Japan, stating, “He’s been in the middle of the action... they’re all going to benefit from that.”
Upcoming Matches
Looking ahead, the White Sox are set to face the Seattle Mariners in their next spring training game, scheduled for 2:10 p.m. on Saturday. This matchup will feature pitcher Grant Taylor against Logan Gilbert.
Verbatim Quotes
- “But, thankfully, I was able to settle in and not give up any runs.” — Anthony Kay, White Sox Pitcher
- “Japan is great, but it’s not the big leagues. I’m really excited to be here.” — Anthony Kay, White Sox Pitcher
- “I think those guys playing in that atmosphere, they’re all going to benefit from that.” — Will Venable, White Sox Manager
