Ballantini: Peavy feels normal, on track for Friday

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Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Posted: 1:48 p.m.Updated: 2:29 p.m.

By Brett Ballantini
CSNChicago.com

GLENDALE, Ariz.Chicago White Sox starter Jake Peavy threw a 40-pitch side session on Tuesday morning and continues to pass each test with flying colors.

The veteran righthander indicated that he felt very strong for the first 25 throws, then started losing strength for the last 15. But the clear indication was that Peavy was feeling no extra effects of his surgery last July and subsequent rehabthis was completely normal.

I got tired and started to lose command, but thats part of a gradual climb, Peavy said. If you watch a bullpen in June, it wont look anything like that. But this time of the year, youre trying to build endurance and get your arm in shape.

All systems remain go for Peavy either starting the fifth game of the season, on April 7, or the first game the White Sox will need a fifth starter, April 9.

Im trying to pick the pace upIve got to find out where we stand, Peavy said. Im certainly putting something on the ball even working out of the stretch. I tapered off toward the end. I got tired, and the command started lacking. Thats part of spring training, getting ready to pitch.

While Peavy is feeling edgy about getting out on the field, hes not nervous about his Cactus League debut.

I dont think so, you gradually get rid of nerves, Peavy said. As much as you want to throw in batting practice and on the side, when a batter gets in there, you certainlyI dont know if Ill be going all-out, but Ill certainly by trying to get guys out and wont be throwing cookies in there or throw like batting practice. It just hopefully will be a good step in the right direction. Ive got my fingers crossed, and expect the best.

One thing that Peavy hasnt grown weary of is the Peavy Watch, where the fireballers every move and wince is tracked during this uncommonly non-stealth spring training.

I dont mind it at all, Peavy said. Peavy Watch is part of it. I understand Im going on something unique.

If theres anything Peavy is concerned about, its proving himself to his new White Sox teammates and fan base.

Ive got a lot to prove to myself, to teammates, to the front office, Peavy said. Im not making any bold statements saying I have a lot to prove or anything like that, but as a competitor, you want badly to be the guy they thought they were trading for. Im 29 years old, and I believe I still have a lot left to give.

Brett Ballantini is CSNChicago.com's White Sox Insider. Follow him @CSNChi_Beatnik on Twitter for up-to-the-minute White Sox information.

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