Overview
- In Sarasota, Bassitt completed two controlled "ups" and faced regulars including Pete Alonso, Gunnar Henderson, Tyler O’Neill, Taylor Ward and Thairo Estrada.
- He recorded two strikeouts looking, issued three walks — two to Henderson — and allowed little hard contact in the limited session.
- A lighthearted showdown ended with Bassitt declaring “I ain’t ducking,” promising Alonso one pitch and inducing a fly ball.
- Bassitt said he prefers tuning up in games rather than intra-squad BP because both pitchers and hitters are protecting each other.
- Manager Craig Albernaz said Zach Eflin’s return from back surgery is being evaluated one day at a time, a factor in early rotation planning.