SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Several Giants veterans looked at the lineup Friday morning and noted that a start could mean an off day Saturday, when the Giants visit Surprise Stadium. Buster Posey is taking the longest trip in the Cactus League on purpose.
After missing two days with a stiff neck, Posey was in Friday’s lineup for a game against the A’s. He plans to start Saturday and Sunday, too, to make up for plate appearances and innings lost to the minor ailment. Posey, who will fly to Florida on Monday to start preparing for the World Baseball Classic, has just four plate appearances this spring.
“When I’ve been in the game, I’ve felt good,” he said. “I haven’t felt fatigued, so that’s a positive sign.”
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SIGN UP HERE Posey said the neck issue probably came from a bad night’s sleep.
“It was old man neck,” the 29-year-old said.
It’s likely that Johnny Cueto will officially pull out of at least the first round of the WBC on Saturday. That means he won’t face Posey and Brandon Crawford when Team USA faces the Dominican Republic on March 11.
“It would have been fun, but if it’s not going to work out, it’s not going to work out,” Posey said.
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Posey could still face longtime teammate Sergio Romo at some point. Romo will pitch for Team Mexico.
“It would be a chess match for sure,” Posey said, before mentioning the word “tendencies” about eight different ways. In this case, that translates to “slider,” but to be ready for it Posey will need more at-bats. Thus, the three-game slate this weekend, and a trip to west side of the desert.
“Surprise!” he said, smiling. “I am.”