Barnes struck out two batters during a 1-2-3 appearance out of the bullpen in Monday's game against the Pirates, the Boston Herald reports. The right-hander, who has converted to a full-time reliever in 2016, has not allowed a run in four spring appearances (4.2 IP, two hits, one walk, seven strikeouts).
Barnes is in a better spot this year; he'll be a reliever regardless of where he pitches. The UConn product trained as a reliever during last year's spring training, but was sent to Triple-A Pawtucket to be a starter when the need for a reliever at the major league level never materialized. He bounced back-and-forth between the roles all season long -- starting in the minors, relieving in the majors -- and it had a negative impact on Barnes' development. Having one role should lead to better results, but he also needs to grow. "It's been quality of location within the strike zone at times that was a little elusive last year. Like any young pitcher, getting a better idea of himself, certainly what big league hitters can sit on or feast on. The biggest thing with Matt is, if he gets in some fastball counts, have something other than his fastball, a breaking ball to throw for a strike," said manager John Farrell.