Spring Headlines: Jake Arrieta trying to overcome blister issue

An annoying blister on Jake Arrieta’s right thumb hindered his performance and ended his day early during Thursday’s Cactus League game against the San Francisco Giants. Now that same blister could end up costing him his season-opening start against the Angels on April 3.

According to Cubs manager Joe Maddon, Arrieta remains on track to make his start for now. However, he also acknowledges that blisters can be a tad tricky and this one may not clear up enough to make his next scheduled spring outing, which could throw a wrench in their plans.

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What a bummer that would be for Arrieta and for baseball fans in general. He always seemed to step up last season when the spotlight was on him. That included a no-hitter on Sunday Night Baseball at Dodger Stadium and a shutout in Pittsburgh during the NL wild-card game. Facing Mike Trout on opening day would have been another fun chapter in his story, but that rare matchup may have to wait.

As for the Cubs, their only concern is getting him right. If that means pushing back his first start, it’s a small price to pay. Maddon can turn to last season’s opening day starter Jon Lester, who has five overall in his career, or the newly-signed John Lackey, who has two. In fact, Lackey starting that opener in Anaheim could be pretty fun too.

OTHER SPRING HEADLINES

Stick around: The Phillies have signed manager Pete Mackanin to a new two-year deal that will cover the next two seasons. There’s also a club option for the 2018 season. [@Phillies]

Day-to-day: Albert Pujols is considered day-to-day after bruising his right foot on a hit-by-pitch in Friday’s game. [@Alden_Gonzalez]

Not ready: Dodgers shortstop Corey Seager has not been cleared to resume running yet after spraining his knee last week. [@kengurnick]

Season preview: Are the Astros ready to take the next step? [The Stew]

Back soon?: Ryan Braun hopes a few more days of rest will resolve his back issues. [@Haudricourt]

Panda update: Pablo Sandoval has not yet been ruled out for opening day with his own back ailment. [ESPN Boston]

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Mark Townsend is a writer for Big League Stew on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Townie813