Pierzynski can play, but will rest a couple more days

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ARLINGTON, TEXAS -- A.J. Pierzynski is convinced hes ready after Friday afternoon but will likely rest two more games, the White Sox said.

Pierzynski has missed the White Sox past two games with a minor right oblique strain. Even though hes not in Fridays lineup, Pierzynski declared himself fit for action after he successfully got through an early batting practice session.

With the team expected to play in hot weather the next two nights -- temperature is expected to range from 90-100 degrees -- Pierzynski will sit instead of risk further injury.

Pierzynski said he injured himself during Mondays game but had felt some soreness in the week leading up to the injury.

Hitting was the final hurdle, Pierzynski said. I can catch fine. I can throw fine. I did a full workout today. Its fine. Literally the only time I feel it is when I swing. Its not unmanageable, its not unbearable, were playing it safe than sorry and get better then continue to push it and have something crazy happen.

From where it was three days ago its 100 times better. We came to the decision, talking to Robin and talking to Hermy, that I could play tonight. Im available to play tonight. But wed just rather with the heat here and with everything that is going on give it another day or two, that way Ill be a lot closer to 100 percent if it responds the way it has over the last three days.

The White Sox face Texas left-hander Matt Harrison on Saturday night, which likely means another start for Tyler Flowers, manager Robin Ventura said. Ventura would rather Pierzynski miss a few days than a significant chunk of time.

Its just a case of not pushing it, Ventura said. He could play, but we have two months left and we dont want to lose him for two weeks.

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