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Tuesday, March 11, 2003

By Robert Dvorchak, Post-Gazette Sports Writer

BRADENTON, Fla. -- It's rare to see a 1-0 game in spring training. But with the wind blowing in at McKechnie Field yesterday, the Boston Red Sox eked out a win on a solo home run by Johnny Damon against Rolando Arrojo.

The lack of Pirates offense might have had something to do with the fact that Jason Kendall, Brian Giles, Aramis Ramirez and Reggie Sanders were given the day off.

"At some point, you have to give them a rest," Manager Lloyd McClendon said.

Damon's home run came on what McClendon called "a mistake pitch" in the fifth inning, but he also said that Arrojo pitched effectively in getting eight outs.

"He looked free and loose. He did a good job," McClendon said.

Shortstop Jack Wilson had three of the Pirates' six hits -- all singles -- and is hitting .429 in his past six games. Adam Hyzdu extended his hitting streak to five games. The home crowd of 5,245 was the largest of the season.

Torres shows progress

Starting pitcher Salomon Torres showed progress by throwing four scoreless innings. He allowed three hits, walked one and struck out three in his best outing of the spring, getting out of a second-inning jam in which he had a runner on third with one out.

During the last turn through the rotation, none of the candidates for the fifth spot did anything to claim the early lead for the job.

"Unfortunately, all of us struggled on our last start," said Torres, who turns 31 today. "It's going to be interesting to see who gets the last spot. May the best man win. It's important to throw well anytime you go out there. Right now, there's extra incentive."

McClendon said the pitcher who will win the job will be the one who shows the best stuff, not necessarily the best record.

"You hope somebody steps up and separates himself from the pack," McClendon said.

No word from Lofton

General Manager Dave Littlefield hoped to have an answer from Kenny Lofton over the weekend, but nothing has been finalized on a contract with the free-agent center fielder. Littlefield said he is approaching the point where he will stick with the players he has. "We're still staying in contact. At this point, we don't feel the due date of putting any kind of deadline," Littlefield said.

Longer look

Shortstop prospect Jose Castillo figured to be in the round of cuts yesterday. But even though his chances of making the roster are slim, Castillo's play has stood out. He's hitting .357 and has made a good impression with his strong arm. "We made a decision to take a little longer look," Littlefield said. "We thought the experience of being here a little longer would pay off for him."

Benson to start

Kris Benson will start against Minnesota's Brad Radke today. Brian Boehringer, Mike Williams and Duaner also Sanchez are scheduled to pitch.