White Sox's Dylan Covey: Improves chances as fill-in starter

Covey allowed three hits and one walk while striking out three in 3.2 scoreless innings against the Indians on Saturday, Scott Merkin of the White Sox's official site reports.

Saturday's start had been scheduled for days, but it took on added significance in light of the news that Carlos Rodon (bicpes) would likely begin the regular season on the disabled list. Covey, a Rule 5 pick, is one of three starters being considered as a temporary fill-in for Rodon. He entered Saturday's start having allowed seven runs on nine hits in his last 3.2 innings but was much more aggressive in attacking hitters and produced his best outing of the spring. While encouraging, it was just one start, and he threw only 44 pitches. If he's a serious candidate to fill in for Rodon, the White Sox will have Covey stay back in Arizona when the major league team breaks camp and have him make a start in a minor league game to build up his innings and pitch counts.