Chris Sale dazzles in second spring training start vs. Twins originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston
Chris Sale‘s 2023 is off to an encouraging start.
The Boston Red Sox left-hander followed his strong spring debut with a dominant performance Saturday vs. the Minnesota Twins. He allowed just one hit with no walks while striking out five in three scoreless innings. His fastball reached 95 mph and his slider gave vintage Sale flashbacks.
Red Sox rotation preview: Can Sale regain ace form?
Sale threw 32 pitches and left the game with a 3-0 Red Sox lead. The 33-year-old was scheduled to only pitch three innings, but his efficiency allowed him to throw one more mock inning in the bullpen after his appearance.
“It’s big time,” Sale told NESN’s Jahmai Webster on the broadcast. “That’s what we’re here to do. One start at a time, getting some innings under my belt. Today was a good day.”
The primary concern with Sale is his inability to stay healthy for a full season. The seven-time All-Star has made only 11 regular-season starts since the end of 2019 due to a myriad of injuries.
Sale could return form as the Red Sox’ ace if he can put those injury woes in the past. Through his first two spring starts, he’s making a strong case to be Boston’s Opening Day starter on March 30.
The Red Sox went on to fall to the Twins, 4-3.