Levine: White Sox Bullpen Dealing With Injuries

By Bruce Levine--

GLENDALE, Ariz. (CBS) -- Minor injures to closer David Robertson and setup man Jake Petricka are of some concern for the White Sox with Cactus League play coming to a close late next week.

Both pitchers have been shut down from game competition, while the training staff helps cool down forearm soreness for each reliever.

Robertson (for the Yankees) and Petricka (for the White Sox) combined for 53 saves last season. Robertson signed a four-year, $44-million contract with Chicago this past winter after taking over for the legendary Mariano Rivera in New York in 2014. Robertson was outstanding in his new role, converting 39 of 44 opportunities. Last season, Robertson missed two weeks in April with a groin strain, so he's trying to avoid another early season injury stretching into the regular season.

Robertson has never been on the disabled list for any arm issues.

"This happens from time to time," Robertson said. "I will be in some kind of competition on Sunday."

A rookie last year, Petricka was the White Sox closer for most of the season. He will be Robertson's primary setup man from the right side. Zach Duke will be the left-handed setup man after signing a three-year deal in the offseason.

Petricka will throw a side session Saturday.

"I tried to do too much early, and that is probably why I am sore," he said.

Chicago's bullpen hasn't put up quality numbers this spring, but no one in the team's management strata really cares about rote stats in spring. The major emphasis is on a progression of arm strength and pitch command with 10 days left until Opening Day.

Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score and CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.