Weaver takes inspiration from Lackey’s path

CHICAGO — They didn’t exchange any playful banter, but Jered Weaver and John Lackey did trade smiles as Weaver headed to the batter’s box for the first time Tuesday night at Wrigley Field.

The at-bat, which started the third inning in the Angels’ 5-1 loss to start a two-game Interleague set, ended with Weaver striking out looking. It was one of Lackey’s six strikeouts in eight innings to earn the win, but it was also by a pitcher who has served as a motivation for Weaver to continue battling through physical issues that have plagued him the past couple years.

Lackey, who became friends with Weaver while spending four seasons atop the Angels’ rotation with him (2006-09), has regained his effectiveness after Tommy John surgery in 2011, despite being 37 years old.

“He’s a hard worker and I knew once he got that [elbow] healthy, he was going to keep doing what he was doing [before],” said Weaver, who went five innings and allowed five runs (four earned). “Obviously, he’s feeling good and has had a tremendous career, even after that.”

It’s something Weaver can look at in his own health struggle, which included back problems last season and a deteriorating …

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