Mick Abel News: Ends scoreless streak
Abel gave up two earned runs over 3.1 innings with four strikeouts and one walk Friday, ending a 10-inning scoreless streak. He has a 1.35 ERA with a 17:1 K:BB in 13.1 innings this spring.
Abel is likely competing with Zebby Matthews for the fifth starter role. This was his first speed bump in otherwise stellar spring. A high walk rate (6.5 BB/9 in the majors last season) has been a problem, so his great control this spring is encouraging. He's making a strong case to begin the season in the rotation, but he'll likely be the odd man out since he has minor-league options left. Still the competition between him and Matthews will likely come down to the final week of spring training.
