Palka staying positive in hitless stretch

Osich recalled from Triple-A, Frare optioned to Charlotte

April 12th, 2019

NEW YORK -- Orioles first baseman Chris Davis isn’t the only one who has started the season without a hit. White Sox outfielder is hitless in his first 25 at-bats this season and was not in Friday’s starting lineup against the Yankees, with left-hander J.A. Happ on the mound.

However, manager Rick Renteria is confident Palka will get back on track. It’s a matter of attacking pitches he can handle, according to the skipper.

“I think he has been trying a little too much," Renteria said. “So hopefully, it’s more about calming him down, putting his approach in a better place and following through with that, alongside the work he does with the swings. His swing is fine. It’s a matter of pitch selection and things of that nature.”

Last year, Palka was one of the White Sox top power hitters, slugging 27 home runs. This year, Palka said he fell into that trap of getting more aggressive at the plate instead of taking a step back and seeing more pitches.

“I’m not getting in long counts. Mechanically, [the swing is] good," Palka said. "I have to stay positive and patient. That’s it.”

Some bullpen help
Before Friday’s game against the Yankees, the White Sox recalled left-hander from Triple-A Charlotte and optioned left-hander to Charlotte.

According to Renteria, Osich will be a situational reliever. Osich has made three appearances for Charlotte this season and allowed one run in four innings.

“[Osich] has a little experience. We saw him a little bit in camp. Hopefully, he can just help us out on matchups if possible,” Renteria said.

As far as Frare is concerned, Renteria believes the left-hander will return to the big leagues. Frare has given up two runs in his four appearances this season (2 2/3 innings).

“We sent him down with the expectations of getting him back on track, letting him work,” Renteria said. “He broke camp with us. He had a decent camp, but had [some rough outings] the last couple of times. We want him to throw strikes. Hopefully, he puts himself there. If there is a need and he is doing well, we’ll be able to revisit that possibility [of Frare returning to the big leagues]. He is a big league pitcher. He just needs some more seasoning.”