SURPRISE, Ariz. -- Carson Fulmer experienced just how aggressive the Kansas City Royals can be.
The White Sox first-round pick made his Cactus League debut and allowed three runs and five hits in two-plus innings against Kansas City at Surprise Stadium. Behind home runs from Adam Eaton and Tyler Saladino, the White Sox held off the Royals 7-6.
“They’re aggressive,” Fulmer said. “Usually they’re looking for one pitch early on and they’re going to square it up no matter what you throw. So you’ve got to change your plan a little bit. Obviously, my first time facing them and I wanted to challenge them with my stuff. Going out and just doing everything I can just to pound the strike zone and just have them put the ball in play and they did that. Like I said, once in a lifetime experience and hopefully it happens again here soon. I’m just thankful to have the opportunity and it was awesome out there. Enjoyed every minute of it.”
Eaton went 3-for-3 and only needed a triple for the cycle.
Avisail Garcia went 2-for-3 with two RBIs and also reached on a hit by pitch.
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J.B. Shuck and Matt Davidson also had two hits each for the White Sox, who finished with 15.
MLB
Earlier in the morning, Jose Quintana allowed a run and two hits and struck out four in three innings in a B game against the Cincinnati Reds at Goodyear, Ariz.
The White Sox opted for Fulmer on Saturday rather than have the Royals get an extra look at Quintana. They did the same with Carlos Rodon last spring, too.
“You are trying to give him an experience of facing tough lineups,” White Sox manager Robin Ventura said. “He gets the World Champions. I thought he was amped up and probably rightfully so. I think he was overthrowing a little bit. He’s getting to face really good lineups as far as going through that front part.
“He got hit around a little bit, but bounced back and made some pitches. Part of it is going to be just the experience of him getting in here and facing these hitters and making adjustments and continuing to throw strikes.”