Pods’ comeback? Not so fast
The sight of Scott Podsednik performing agility drills in the Wrigley Field outfield might raise hopes for Sox fans seeking the return of the speedy leadoff hitter, but general manager Ken Williams raised doubt whether Podsednik would return by the All-Star break. “When he’s ready, he’ll be ready,” Williams said. “And it certainly isn’t anytime soon.” Podsednik has been on the disabled list for more than a month because of a mild right adductor strain, opening a revolving door in left field for Rob Mackowiak (who has played 40 percent of the innings since Podsednik got hurt), Ryan Sweeney, Pablo Ozuna, Luis Terrero and even Brian Anderson.
— Mark Gonzales
Barrett has a blast in Game 1
Michael Barrett was psyched to hit a home run in front of his father, David, who was watching him play at Wrigley Field for the first time. “It was an emotional day for me because he hasn’t been in good health,” Barrett said. “And I hit a home run in my first at-bat in the second inning. That was real special for me.” The catcher was a little woozy after the game, after being hit in the head with a foul tip. Barrett, who punched Sox cather A.J. Pierzynski in the jaw last year and set off a melee, relishes this series. “I love this series,” he said. “There’s energy all over the place. We had a lot of Sox fans at the game. I got a few jeers, but overall I thought it was a first-class atmosphere.” Barrett’s homer, a line drive into the crowd in left field, tied the score 1-1.
— Paul Sullivan
