Herrmann knocked around in Tribe's loss to D-backs

By foxsports
Published

GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- Frank Herrmann's road back from Tommy John surgery continues to be a process, but one where both sides know it is going to take some time.

On "Bullpen Day" on Saturday, Herrmann got the start and lasted only 2/3 of an inning against Arizona. The right-hander gave up four hits, including back-to-back homers, and three runs as the Diamondbacks posted a 4-2 win at Goodyear Ballpark.

In two Cactus League appearances, Herrmann has an ERA of 32.40. In 1 2/3 innings, he has faced 13 batters and allowed eight hits (including three home runs) and six runs with a strikeout.

Considering that Herrmann is less than a year removed from surgery on his pitching elbow, the fact that he is out there remains an accomplishment.

Said manager Terry Francona of Herrmann's outing on Saturday: "He threw some balls that caught too much of the plate and got hit hard. From our side of it, it is his second outing and he continues to grow from it. It's going to take a little awhile. He's looking at it that he wants to get outs. He needs some reps and needs to keep getting stronger. Then he'll start getting people out."

THE ARMS: It was a good day for some of the other guys in the bullpen. Vinnie Pestano, John Axford and Mark Rzepczynski each pitched an inning apiece and were effective.

"They ended up facing their regular lineup which you don't see too often at this point. It was nice to do that," Francona said.

A big reason why Arizona gave their regulars a longer stint is that they are leaving tomorrow for Australia, where they will take on the Dodgers in the Opening Series next weekend.

In a minor-league game, Trevor Bauer started for Double-A Akron against Columbus. In four innings, he gave up a pair of runs on three hits while striking out two and walking three.

"There were more pitches that were up but he immediately threw the next one down. It is a step in the right direction," said Francona of Bauer.

THE BATS: Mike Aviles went 3 for 3 with an RBI double and Luke Carlin was 2 for 3 with an RBI single. David Murphy and Elliot Johnson also had two hits.

THE GLOVES: Carlos Santana made a nice play on a line drive during the second inning to rob Cliff Pennington of a hit.

UP NEXT: It is split-squad action tomorrow with the Tribe in Mesa to face the Cubs and Scottsdale to battle the Giants.