3/18 Samardzija tunes up vs. Minor Leaguers

Jeff Samardzija got Thursday off after working on Wednesday, which was an off day for the rest of the team. The right-hander threw three innings in a Minor League game at Fitch Park on Wednesday.

“It was good, nice and quick,” Samardzija said. “I got some quick outs. I worked on throwing the changeup when I was behind in the count because the last time out, they were pretty aggressive. It’d be nice to have that pitch to come back with.”

The last time out, Samardzija faced the Brewers and served up two home runs. Wednesday felt better, although it was a lot quieter at Fitch Park than in Maryvale.

“It was obviously a little different situation being on an off day down there is different than pitching in Maryvale against a great lineup like Milwaukee,” he said. “It was just good to get out there and keep throwing. I’m just trying to get the stamina up and innings up and get ready for next time.”

His next start will likely be Monday when the Cubs play host to the Indians at HoHoKam. In the Minor League game, Samardzija faced some of his teammates, Brett Jackson and Josh Vitters.

“They were excited,” Samardzija said. “They wanted to get some hits. That’s probably why the changeup worked. I let them groundout to the second baseman.”

– Carrie Muskat