Power Not Big Concern

Juan Rivera hit his second homer of the spring Friday in the Angels’ 5-3 victory over the Kansas City Royals at Surprise Stadium, a noteworthy development for a team that has had a power shortage.

The Angels didn’t exactly hit a ton of homers last season, ranking 10th among 14 American League teams with 162, but they started play Friday with only six homers, fewest among league teams.

This could be a preview of things to come, considering the departure of power hitters Jose Guillen and Troy Glaus and an injury to Dallas McPherson that threatens to delay the start of his season.

“Our team is not as deep as it has been in a couple of years, as far as the long ball, but we’re going to generate enough offense,” Manager Mike Scioscia said. “We have guys who can hit home runs, but we’re not contingent on winning or losing with the home run. There’s other things we can do to score runs.”

Rivera became the first Angel with two homers this spring after hitting a solo shot to left in the fourth off Runelvys Hernandez.

Angel starter John Lackey gave up two unearned runs in 3 2/3 innings while experiencing flu symptoms. Lackey said he has been pleased with the development of his changeup, a pitch he is throwing a few times an inning now instead of a few times a game.

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There remains a slim chance that McPherson could be the opening-day third baseman. Recovering from a herniated disk in his lower back, he played catch and hit off a tee Friday and could play in a game by the end of next week.... Jeff DaVanon was scratched from the lineup because of flu symptoms.... Garret Anderson, sidelined for four games because of irritation in his left knee, is expected to rejoin the lineup today.