D-backs’ Robbie Ray struggles in second start of spring

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Robbie Ray had what he called a “less than ideal” outing against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Saturday in his second start of spring training.

Ray lasted 2/3 of an inning, allowing five runs by way of four hits that included a 2-run home run by Matt Kemp and a solo home run by Kyle Farmer.

While Ray wasn’t pleased with his performance, he utilized it as an opportunity to work on his pitches in the bullpen after he left the game.

“I went down to the pen afterwards and worked on some stuff,” Ray said. “I kind of worked some stuff out, and I felt overall good coming out of getting that work done.”

Ray threw to two batters in a bullpen session after the game and pinpointed some areas that he was trying to work out.

“Just getting a little quick with my delivery,” he added. “It’s early, I’m just trying to get things clicking on the same track.

“Just getting too quick with my finish and kind of falling off. I was leaving everything arm side, so that’s what was happening.”

Ray seemingly turned those first inning earned runs into lemonade by using a bad outing as an opportunity to further prepare for the regular season.

“That’s why it’s spring training,” Ray said. “Trying to work the kinks out and get things right before the season starts.

“Obviously, you don’t want something like this happening during the season, so it’s better that it happens now.”

The D-backs lose their fifth in a row by a score of 14-6.

BASE HITS

– Good thing none of this counts. The Arizona Diamondbacks have allowed 88 runs in 11 spring training games, which included 14 runs on Saturday and 15 runs the game prior to the Colorado Rockies. The D-backs led MLB in 2017 with a +291 run differential increase from the prior season.

– Before the game, manager Torey Lovullo said that relief pitcher Brad Boxberger, who was experiencing soreness in his throwing arm, will throw a bullpen session on Sunday. Also, Lovullo commented that relief pitcher Jimmie Sherfy is on track with his long toss program. The team is being careful to not rush him back.

– Lovullo reiterated that there will be a three player competition for playing time at shortstop, which will include Ahmed, Owings, and Marte. Owings and Marte will also be competing to start at second base.

– Relief pitcher Neftali Feliz made his debut on Saturday for the team, allowing one hit and striking out one in one inning of work. He was the only D-backs pitcher who did now allow a run to score.

– Taijuan Walker will get his second start of spring for the D-backs on Sunday against Jon Lester and the Chicago Cubs at Salt River Fields. First pitch is scheduled for 1:10PM.

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