Third to first

• In 2012, Ventura's first season as manager, a closer was not announced until Hector Santiago warmed up to protect a ninth-inning lead in the second game against the Rangers in Arlington. That situation could play out again in 2014, after the White Sox traded incumbent Addison Reed for third baseman Matt Davidson during the offseason.

"It's possible," said Ventura prior to Monday's 7-6 victory over the Mariners.

Nate Jones, Matt Lindstrom and rookie Daniel Webb came into camp as the favorites for that spot. Maikel Cleto, who was claimed off of waivers from the Royals during Spring Training, also could be in the mix, although Ventura mentioned Monday that Cleto could be used for a couple of innings at times.

Jones was bothered early on by a strained left glute and struggled with his control Sunday. Lindstrom has made just two Cactus League appearances because of a left oblique strain, and Webb missed time because of the death of his mother.

Bullpen coach and franchise saves leader Bobby Thigpen is the only one ruled completely out of the mix. Zach Putnam, who is still in the mix for the final bullpen slot, closed out Monday's victory with a scoreless ninth.

• Ventura isn't ready to commit as to how he would use Dayan Viciedo and Alejandro De Aza in left field.

• Conor Gillaspie has reached base in 13 of his last 14 games.

• Erik Johnson, who worked six innings in Monday's 7-6 victory over the Mariners, will have at least eight days off before his regular-season opener.