LaRoche’s back on mend now
TEMPE, Ariz.— Adam LaRoche’s back felt considerably better Monday, and considering how he felt after it locked up on him during an at- bat Saturday, he couldn’t be more pleased.
“Much better today, much better,’’ LaRoche said. “I’ve never had a complete lockup. I’ve talked to guys who have had it— my brother fought it his whole career. It’s not fun— I literally felt paralyzed when it first happened.’’
LaRoche, the Sox’ designated hitter, went straight to the trainer’s table after taking a swing.
“Luckily we got treatment on it quick,’’ LaRoche said. “Took some muscle- relaxer type stuff, and it’s night and day compared to two days ago. That’s the good thing. When I first did it, as bad as it felt, I was thinking two weeks.
“I wouldn’t have guessed two days later I’d be feeling this good. I was able to get a small workout in today and a lot of treatment, and it’s night and day.’’
LaRoche says he should begin swinging lightly “in a couple of days.”
The optimistic view is that LaRoche is on the mend. There is concern, though, because of his age ( 36), salary ($ 13 million), lack of production last season and the need for a left- handed presence in the lineup. He came to camp feeling good and having a good feel for his swing.
The signing of Austin Jackson added to the outfield depth and also added to the team’s DH options.
“It could be a lot worse,’’ LaRoche said. “If this was the first week of season, they’re forced with trying to make a DL decision.’’
This and that
Third baseman Mike Olt, who was designated for assignment to make room on the 40- man roster for Jackson, cleared waivers and was outrighted to Class AAA Charlotte. Olt, 27, a former Cub who was given a look at third base late last season, will remain in camp.
Right- hander Mat Latos threw on the back fields and is awaiting an assignment to pitch in his first game. Chris Sale and Jose Quintana haven’t pitched in a Cactus League game, either.
Sox assistant director of player development Del Matthews was named Senior Director of Baseball Development for Major League Baseball. Matthews, who is running the Sox’ minor- league camp, will play a key role in MLB’s Youth Programs initiatives.
“It’s an extraordinary opportunity,” said Matthews, the son of former Cub Gary Matthews.
Pitcher Scott Carroll committed the Sox’ first error of the spring.