Tampa – As he moves up the depth chart of his training this spring, each outing has a high interest in Will Warren.
On Monday, the 25-year-old was tested on what he called a “grainy” outing against the Tigers lineup, mostly composed by Steinbrenner Field regulars. The first six batters are major leaguers.
Warren allowed two hits and two hits (one win), but only attacked once in 3²/₃ innings with a 10-2 win.
“There weren't many strikes and we didn't attack early,” Warren said. “But overall, I think it's good to have one of them out of the way. I'll compete a bit. I don't even know if there was a strikeout today. Probably not. But yeah, even if it shows where I'm, I'm just attacking the zone and trying to minimize the damage.”
The rookie found himself running to do a rotation as injuries were on the sidelines for Lewis Gill and Gerrit Cole after shattering last season in spot duty.
On the fourth spring outing, Warren pitched 1.54 ERA in 11²/₃ innings.
On the 40-person roster, Warren is considered the front runner for the final rotation spot, with Marcus Stroman putting a ticket on the fourth starter.
Veteran Carlos Carrasco, Journeyman Alan Winans and prospects Sean Boyle and Cam Schlittler were also able to join the mix of the fifth spot.
Despite his best outings, Aaron Boone is “really excited” about where Warren is.
“Even today, I thought it was another good day that I didn't even think he was in his best condition, and that's important too,” Boone said. “I think he's made a lot of progress. He smacked himself right in the middle of the conversation.”
The pressure didn't reach the younger pitchers, and he declared that he was ready for work, “I came to camp with that in mind.”
“Nothing has changed mentally,” Warren said. “Unfortunately, due to the situation, the chance has now presented itself. But yeah, I came to camp knowing that I need to get a spot and take a spot. So I haven't changed my way of thinking about it. You have to do what you need to do. Go outside and show me who Warren is.”
