Danks focused on enhanced preparation

GLENDALE, Ariz. -- In his first 2016 Cactus League start, John Danks allowed three runs on four hits over two innings with one strikeout. But it was more about the work than the results at this point for the southpaw.
"As it gets closer, you put a lot more into it," Danks said. "I am not going to completely forget about tonight. There's some things in the game itself that burn at you, need to be better. For me, if you're ready and healthy and sharp as you need to be April 1, that's the goal out here."
"There were probably some jitters going into it of opening spring off," said White Sox manager Robin Ventura of Danks. "He made some mistakes and paid for them. We had some guys go out and pitch well, and we had some who would like to have it over again."
• Danks off the mark a bit against Dodgers
Danks, in his 10th year with the White Sox, told MLB.com earlier this week that he planned on using statistical analysis more in his preparation. The goal is to put Danks in the best possible position to succeed.
"I'd be lying to you if I said it hasn't been frustrating the last couple of years. That's a given," Danks said. "But I'm not the first guy to have to make some adjustments.
"I feel like I can do better than I have the last couple years and have shown flashes in the second half in general last year. If I can roll that into this year and make the adjustments we're hoping to make, I think my struggles will be something of the past."
Anderson's life lessons
Tim Anderson will be leaving camp Sunday to join his fiancée, Bria, for the birth of their daughter, Peyton. It's an exciting period for the organization's No. 2 MLBPipeline.com prospect, who is becoming a father for the first time and also inching closer to the Major Leagues.
"It's a blessing," said Anderson. "I'm ready for it."
• May trying to impress White Sox in camp
Anderson almost certainly won't break camp with the big league team, most likely destined to play shortstop for Triple-A Charlotte. His goal is to "learn a lot" and soak up as much information as possible until further notice.
"I've been making my plays and just been focused and more relaxed and confident," Anderson said. "I feel like I've made good progress going into this camp, and I just feel a lot better than I did last camp and more comfortable."
Sands stands out
Jerry Sands, who is in the mix for the 25th and final roster spot, doubled in Thursday's 6-1 loss to the Dodgers. He also threw a runner out trying to stretch a single into a double and made a running catch in left.
"He has a lot of versatility," Ventura said. "It's nice to see him swinging the bat against a righty, because he's known mostly for doing it against lefties.
"So coming in here right out of the gate, make a nice play in the outfield, swing the bat pretty good. He did a nice job at first base the other day, too."

A sign for the times
Adam Eaton stopped and signed autographs for numerous fans on Thursday morning at Camelback Ranch. The White Sox leadoff man couldn't pass on signing and taking a picture with a young boy who was holding a sign reading "Hey Adam. How about a high five."
They said It
"Personality-wise, it doesn't fit, but I think that's something he has to improve on in his game, and I think he will." --Ventura, on Brett Lawrie drawing two walks Thursday.