VIDEO: AJ Burnett speaks following loss to Boston Red Sox

The Pittsburgh Pirates fell to the Boston Red Sox by a 5-1 final on Thursday, with AJ Burnett struggling in his latest Grapefruit League outing, issuing three walks in his start.

The right-hander offered these thoughts on his work Thursday:

Of course, it is only spring training, but it was good to see that Burnett is building arm strength without any wear-and-tear issues that you might expect from a 38-year old hard-thrower.  As we’ve said before, his velocity figures to remain at an elite level now that he is fully healthy.  Above all else, one thing is clear:  AJ Burnett will be more than just a throw-in to the rotation this year.  He will be a valued starter.

Manager Clint Hurdle, who is seeking to lead the Pirates to their first National League Central crown since 1992, also spoke on the loss – to a Red Sox team that is looking to rebound from a dismal 2014 campaign that followed a World Series championship.

The Pirates are back in action Friday, taking on the Minnesota Twins in Grapefruit League action. Rum Bunter will have a full recap, including player and manager interviews – following the contest.

Next: Pirates' bats quiet in 5-1 loss to the Boston Red Sox