Semien stays prepared despite lack of playing time

CHICAGO -- Since May 7, Marcus Semien has made just five starts, including Monday's series opener against the Indians.

But Semien hasn't changed his preparation, even with 17 plate appearances during that stretch.

"Well, I do the same thing every day," Semien said. "I take ground balls at multiple positions, I hit BP the same every day. I hit in the cage. I keep the same routine, but when you don't know exactly what position you will be in certain days, you have to make sure you take [ground balls] at all of them."

Early hitting work is something Semien has done from the start of the season. So, when Chris Sale worked his way back to the mound via side sessions and a simulated game, Semien was happy to grab a bat.

"I look forward to any time a guy is throwing live," Semien said. "If I'm not playing every day, that's a good opportunity to see where I'm at that day and prepare myself for when I do play."

As a source of fun, Semien takes a few fly balls during batting practice but has never played the outfield and doesn't see that changing any time soon. He hasn't really had to adjust from playing every day to playing part time, or moving between third and second, because his intense work doesn't change.

"I'm the same every day," Semien said. "No matter if I'm in the lineup like I was earlier in the year every day, or, you know, how it is right now. I'm happy to fill in if guys aren't feeling great or if guys need a day. I'm ready."

Semien went 1-for-4 with two runs scored in Monday's 6-2 victory.