2011 Chicago White Sox: Playing for keeps and a city.

[sirotka33]

Sox owner to fans, "We're all in"

Glendale, AZ - It's a particularly warm and dry day in the middle of March, hundreds of miles away from where the 2011 version of the Chicago White Sox will play home games. The Camelback Ranch is where things like the competitions of third base, the fifth outfielder and who will break camp with the big club while Jake Peavy recovers from his latest set back will be decided. Today, however, there is a different buzz around the complex. Today, Owner and Chairman of the Board, Jerry Reinsdorf is at the Ranch catching an early glimpse at what his team record 140 million dollar payroll looks like.

"Ultimately after last season's failure to overtake the Twins, we had to take a hard and long look at this team as currently constructed. We were close to pushing the button and trading our assets, attempting a rebuild. Kenny (Williams, White Sox GM) was in my ear trying to convince me to spend more and add to the club. I guess this is on him. We have made a profit the last three years, so we can afford to invest some of that into this year's club. Kenny is convinced we just needed to add a couple pieces and bring back (Paul) Konerko and A.J. (Pierzynski). I've long believed that when we win, the fans will show up and support us. We hope that is right, because this year, we're all in. We can afford to lose money this year, but we can't lose money two years in a row.

"It's going to be an exciting summer for Chicago fans. Our Bulls are in first place, We've brought in Adam Dunn and Jake Peavy looks to be mostly healthy. I would put our five starters against any team's in the league. That's how strongly we feel about our positioning.", Reinsdorf said.

When asked about the team's chances to out draw the Chicago Cubs in attendance in the near future, the Chairman didn't pull any punches. "When you look at both situations as a sports fan, as a baseball fan. Do you want to invest your entertainment dollars on a team that admittedly is cutting payroll and putting an inferior product on the field? Or do you want to spend those same dollars on a team that is going out there and doing everything it can to compete this season? Maybe Wrigley Field will crumble and then we can lead the league in attendance."

After spending over 120 million dollars this off-season on Free Agents and contract extentions, it is understandable that there is a feeling of urgency surrounding the White Sox. The South Siders look poised to bring a Central Division title back to the city for the first time in 3 years. If they fail again this year, or get off a slow start, we can expect to see a few changes. Only time will tell the story of the 2011 Chicago White Sox. For now, the sun is shining and hope springs eternal.

[sirotka33]

League Settings: Contract Renewals/Length +20%, Trade Frequency -20% April/May, +0% June, +50% July-March, Scouting Perfect, Farm/Medical Excellent, Injury Frequency -10%, Manager difficulty. $20 million in cash added to the White Sox franchise to help hedge the $140m in-game roster, when the real opening day payroll is $124m. (Mogul can not emulate deferred compensation and Reinsdorf is on record with saying he is willing to spend his own money this year if the White Sox do not turn a profit with their larger than ever payroll.)

Ideally I want to chronicle the Chicago White Sox franchise the way I know them. I will incorporate "characters" in my dynasty, but you won't be privy to any "behind the scenes" discussions or knowledge. Everything you read will be in an article style format. I'm going to add full breakdown segments like cameras are following the GM, the Owner and the Manager at certain times. (Think of 'The Association' or 'The Office' tv series.)

I will be doing every game in PBP mode with full recaps based on game/series importance. Articles like the one in the first post will be common place for the White Sox and will also highlight special happenings around the league in the same way. This is by far and away my favorite team, and I've been reading the dynasties on here for awhile and have decided to jump in head first. The interesting thing with this team are all the personalities are either in the front office or on the coaching staff, so figuring out a way to make it interesting for the readers as the roster changes throughout the dynasty will be rather natural.

Furthermore, I am no one's "alt". I am a relative new-comer to the community and would enjoy any feedback/help/comments while cultivating this dynasty.

The next post to follow will be an in-depth season preview. Thanks for reading this far!

[sirotka33]

Catcher

Starter - A.J. Pierzynski (79) - He's been a model of consistentcy since arriving on the South Side in 2005. You know what you get with him, 15 home runs, 60 RBI and an arm that is neither an asset nor a liability. He made one all-star appearance with the White Sox in 2006 and led the team in batting average in 2009 with .300

Bench - Ramon Castro (76) - Never notching more than 250 plate appearances in any season in his career, Ramon has managed to remain in the big leagues for 13 seasons with his rocket arm and decent pop. He's going to be looked upon for a larger role this season, especially against lefties as Pierzynski is getting up there in innings logged and the White Sox look to preserve him for a stretch run.

Top Prospect - Tyler Flowers (76/79) - The White Sox love two things about this 25 year old rookie. He knows how to handle a pitching staff and has decent power. He'll never be a star in the league, but when it is his turn to start in the show, he will provide adequate numbers.

First Base

Starter - Paul Konerko (83) - After a career year at the age of 34, he was rewarded with a 3 year/37 million dollar extension. Long a fan favorite for the Sox, he is known for his horrendously slow starts and hot finishes. If he sandwiches somewhere between 2009 (.277/.353/.489) and 2010 (.312/.393/.584) forms, the Sox will get their money's worth. He is a 4-time all-star (2002, 2005, 2006, 2010) and a 10-5 player.

Bench - Committee - Adam Dunn will get starts here and there, so will Dayan Viciedo when he returns. Mark Teahan, Omar vizquel and Brent Lillibridge could all spot start in a pinch.

Top Prospect - Dayan Viciedo (75/81) - This 22 year old will start the year on the disabled list, but will get his fair share of at-bats at both 1B and 3B. He projects to be a servicable hitter with decent average and power. He needs to work on his plate discipline after only 2 walks against 25 strikeouts in 102 at-bats in 2010.

Second Base

Starter - Gordon Beckham (82/89) - The 24 year old went through a sophomore slump after finishing second in the rookie of the year voting in 2009. Still a major player in the White Sox future and considered an "untouchable", Beckham should be more consistent in his second full year at 2B.

Bench - Brent Lillibridge(73), Omar Vizquel(72) - Neither expects to have to spell Beckham very often, but when the need arises both are light hitting yet above average defensive replacements.

Top Prospect - Gordon Beckham (82/89) - SEE ABOVE (STARTER)

Third Base

Starter - Brent Morel (78/81) - The 23 year old rookie won the job over Mark Teahan due to his already gold glove caliber defense. He will likely never be more than a bottom of the order hitter and not a long-term solution at the hot corner.

Bench - Mark Teahan (77) - Projects as a better hitter than Morel and could get his fair share of starts. Could also become expendable as soon as Dayan Viciedo is ready to play around May 1st.

Top Prospect - Brent Morel (78/81) - SEE ABOVE (STARTER)

Shortstop

Starter - Alexei Ramirez (85) - After winning the silver-slugger award in 2010, Alexei was rewarded with an extension through 2015 that will pay him $6.85m annually. One of the better offensive options at a weaker offensive position in the AL. He's also a slick fielder with an above average arm and range but tends to boot the routine balls. At the age of 29, he figures to play into the Sox long-term plans.

Bench - Brent Lillibridge(73), Omar Vizquel(72) - Again, neither will be called upon very often, but when they are expect light bats but good defense.

Top Prospect - Eduardo Escobar (71/82) - The 22 year old will start 2011 at AA Birmingham. He's another light-hitting, good defense shortstop. He likely projects as an eventual bench guy for the White Sox or as trade bait for deadline pieces.

Left Field

Starter - Juan Pierre (75) - Entering his 12th MLB season and 2nd with the Sox, the 33 year old stole 68 bases last season. He is the lead off hitter for this team and in a contract year, so seeing better than average numbers from him wouldn't be a stretch. Expect him to be traded mid-season if the Sox are not in the pennant hunt.

Bench - Lastings Milledge (77/79) - This former top prospect is on his 4th team at the age of 25. He will routinely replace Pierre defensively in late situations or provide a servicable bat for all 3 OF positions when anyone needs a breather. May also be playing for the LF job in 2012.

Top Prospect - NONE - The cupboard is very bare.

Center Field

Starter - Alex Rios (83) - The rangy CF returned to decent form last season with a .284/.334/.457 line after the Sox took a flier by claiming him off waivers late in 2009 from the Blue Jays. The two time all-star (2006, 2007) looks to the CF through 2014 as his rather large contract is fairly untradable. He potential for 20+ HR, but a 30-30 campaign wouldn't be a stretch.

Bench - Lastings Milledge (77/79) - SEE LEFT FIELD (BENCH)

Top Prospect - Jordan Danks (73/77) - The 24 year old brother of star pitcher John Danks projects as nothing more than a career defensive replacement or pinch runner. He is well above average at both, but his bat leaves much to be desired.

Right Field

Starter - Carlos Quentin (81) - In a contract year, this 28 year old and former MVP candidate is hoping to bounce back from two down years, stay healthy and return to 30+ HR form. The 2008 All-star is expected to be a huge part of the White Sox offense in 2011 or as trade bait come deadline time.

Bench - Lastings Milledge (77/79, Mark Teahan (77) - The oft-injured Quentin could miss significant playing time if he's unlucky. Teahan and Milledge would provide servicable back-ups platooning in that role, however there isn't much pop here.

Top Prospect - NONE - The cupboard is very bare.

Designated Hitter

Starter - Adam Dunn (88) - Dunn has put up at least 38 HRs in each of the last 7 seasons. The left handed slugger signed a 4 year deal worth 54 million in the off-season and enters possibly the most HR-friendly park in all of the majors. With just being able to focus on each at-bat as they come, he has a chance to top 50 Home Runs.

STAY TUNED FOR THE PITCHING PREVIEW AND PROJECTIONS!

[sirotka33]

Starter #1 - Mark Buehrle (89/95/69/88) - No one, other than Paul Konerko, has meant or done more for this franchise in the last 10 years. He is undoubtedly the ace of the staff and is looking to rebound from a down year in 2010. Buehrle has made the all-star game 4 times (2002, 2005, 2006, 2009) and has pitched a perfect game along with another no-hitter. The 32 year old is entering the final year of his contract, and as a 10-5 player has stated he will only accept a trade to the St. Louis Cardinals.

Starter #2 - John Danks (91/81/82/85) - The 25 year old has flashed Cy Young caliber stuff throughout his 4 year career. Entering his 5th season , he is still arbitration eligible and the White Sox have no plans to lock him in long-term during the season. If he takes another step forward in his progression, they will have no choice but to invest more dollars in this talented young lefty.

Starter #3 - Gavin Floyd (91/80/83/78) - According to the fine folks at Elias, Gavin Floyd has taken the most no-hitters into the 6th inning or better than anyone in the majors the last 2 seasons combined. It's no surprise that the lanky curveballer has shown dominant stuff early in games. If he can string together strong finishes to go with is strong starts, he could be the unquestioned leader of this staff in the next few years.

Starter #4 - Jake Peavy (90/84/95/87) - 3 full seasons removed from his Cy Young win in 2007, this 29 year old flame thrower has spent the majority of the last two seasons on the disabled list. In 2010, just as he was getting his velocity back, he tore his latimus dorsi forcing season-ending surgery. While Peavy will start the year on the disabled list, the Sox hope he will give them 25 starts this year and have a healthy, fresh arm for the pennant push in August and September.

Starter #5 - Edwin Jackson (93/74/80/74) - Rumor has it, the Washington Nationals told General Manager Kenny Williams that if he acquired Jackson before the trade deadline last year, they would send left handed slugger Adam Dunn to the South Side. It is now 2011, and while that trade never materialized, Dunn is now a Sox uniform, and Jackson is making $8.35M to be the team's 5th starter. Depending on the health of Peavy, he could be traded near the deadline for bullpen or offensive help.

Top Prospect - Andre Rienzo (60/81) - The 22 year old will start the season in rookie ball. He projects as a 4th or 5th starter on a contender or a stop-gap on a non-contender. Nothing impressive from him with a fastball topping out in the low 90's.

Closer - Matt Thornton (81/98/86) - Under contract for the next 3 years, the 34 year old has widely been regarded as the best setup man in all of baseball for the last couple seasons. It is now time for him to be the man who closes the games, after Bobby Jenks was non-tendered and subsequently signed with the Red Sox. He has a dominant fastball that can hit 100 on occassion.

Setup - Chris Sale (86/98/76) (88/94) - The 21 year old rookie was dominant in his brief stint with the big club after being drafted in the first round of June's amateur draft. With a fastball topping out in the mid 90s, he has stuff capable of dominating hitters and if Matt Thornton falters in his new closer role, he has the ego to take over. Projecting as a starter out of college, the White Sox feel his stuff is better suited for the bullpen in 2011 as they attempt to bring a World Series title back to the South Side for the first time since 2005.

Short Relief - Jesse Crain (70/89/78) - This right hander has been known to be able to strike out enough hitters to make up for his poor commmand. A long-time Twin, he signed a 3 year deal in the off-season to come pitch for the Sox.

Short Relief - Sergio Santos (68/93/76) - The former middle infielder converted nicely to a reliever last season during spring training, and despite being a long-shot to make the team in 2010 was awarded a spot on the 25-man opening day roster. All he did after that was post a 2.96 ERA and struck out 56 batters in 51.2 IP. Main cause for concern with the 27 year old is his 26 walks in those innings.

Lefty Specialist - Will Ohman (68/91/75) - The 33 year old was brought in a two-year deal to help shut down the left handed power bats that Minnesota employs. His career .209 OBA against left-handers is very impressive, and the Sox look to use him in key important games down the stretch against the likes of Joe Mauer, Justin Morneau, Jim Thome and Denard Span.

Long Relief - Tony Pena (76/74/73) - Pena will mostly see mop-up duty for this club. Notching 100 innings last year in relief, he was able to make 3 spot starts. He is neither dominant, nor a huge liability, but projecting as the worst reliever on this team, he is the glorified innings eater.

Top Prospect - Chris Sale - SEE ABOVE (SETUP)

[sirotka33]

AL East

1 - New York 94-68
2 - Boston 93-69 (WC)
3 - Tampa Bay 86-76
4 - Baltimore 77-85
5 - Toronto 69-93

AL Central

1 - Minnesota 85-77
2 - Chicago 83-79
3 - Detroit 76-86
4 - Kansas City 75-87
5 - Cleveland 75-87

AL West

1 - Texas 92-70
2 - Oakland 84-78
3 - Seattle 76-86
4 - Los Angeles 72-90

ALDS

New York over Minnesota (3-0)
Boston over Texas (3-2)

ALCS

New York over Boston (4-3)

NL East

1 - Philadelphia 94-68
2 - New York 86-76 (WC)
3 - Atlanta 82-80
4 - Floriida 80-82
5 - Washington 71-91

NL Central

1 - St. Louis 87-75
2 - Cincinnati 86-76 (WC)
3 - Milwaukee 85-77
4 - Pittsburgh 76-86
5 - Chicago 75-87
6 - Houston 69-93

NL West

1 - San Diego 83-79
2 - Colorado 82-80
3 - Los Angeles 81-81
4 - San Francisco 80-82
5 - Arizona 78-84

One Game WC Playoff

Cincinnati defeats New York

NLDS

Philadelphia over Cincinnati (3-1)
San Diego over St. Louis (3-2)

NLCS

Philadelphia over San Diego (4-0)

World Series

Philadelphia over New York (4-2)

[sirotka33]

AL MVP

1 - Josh Hamilton - LF - Texas Rangers
2 - Adam Dunn - DH - Chicago White Sox
3 - Adrian Gonzalez - 1B - Boston Red Sox

AL Cy Young

1 - C.C. Sabathia - SP - New York Yankees
2 - Jon Lester - SP - Boston Red Sox
3 - Felix Hernandez - SP - Seattle Mariners

AL ROTY

1 - Tsuyoshi Nishioka - SS - Minnesota Twins
2 - Jesus Montero - C/DH - New York Yankees
3 - J.P. Arencibia - C - Toronto Blue Jays

NL MVP

1 - Albert Pujols - 1B - St. Louis Cardinals
2 - Carlos Gonzalez - CF - Colorado Rockies
3 - Ryan Braun - LF - Milwaukee Brewers

NL Cy Young

1 - Roy Halladay - SP - Philadelphia Phillies
2 - Cliff Lee - SP - Philadelphia Phillies
3 - Tim Lincecum - SP - San Francisco Giants

NL ROTY

1 - Freddie Freeman - 1B - Atlanta Braves
2 - Domonic Brown - RF - Philadelphia Phillies
3 - Juan Francisco - 3B - Cincinnati Reds

[sirotka33]

Diminutive Outfielder no stranger to big games.

Glendale, AZ - It's 5:30 A.M. at the Camelback Ranch and out of the two teams that share this spring training facility (The Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago White Sox both utilize it), Juan Pierre is the only human on the complex. At 33, he is in the best physical shape of his career and makes no attempt to hide it.

"You get to a point in your career where you can't coast on physical talent alone. I'm never going to hit home runs, so I have to take advantage of every edge I have to stay relevant to this team. They say the first thing to go is your speed, then your eye, then your power. Well, I had no power to begin with, so I have to train harder than these kids to keep my skill set. I am playing for my next contract, and I want to play baseball for another 5 or 10 years." Pierre said.

The White Sox coaching staff raves about Pierre's work ethic and his 68 steals and 96 runs scored show that he is far from washed up, but in the end this is a business. In the final year of a 5 year, $44M contract signed in 2007 with the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Sox are going to be forced into a tough personnel decision in the coming months.

"I wish we could keep all player on this team, I like them all.", said White Sox skipper Ozzie Guillen. "It business this game we play, I don't crunch the number, that Kenny's decision. He is big shot, he makes the calls."

Pierre has played in and won a World Series ring in 2003 with the Florida Marlins, and then in two consecutive League Championship Series with the Dodgers in 2008 and 2009. The White Sox were in the hunt for Pierre's 3rd straight post-season, but ultimately fell short of the Minnesota Twins. Pierre was a starter on the Marlins team, getting on base a total of 12 times in 6 games in the '03 World Series. He was relegated to a reserve role on his last two Dodger teams, but still saw significant action during both regular seasons.

"Juan is a unique talent, I think this guy can steal 75 bases this year. How many people can do that at any level in this game today? That is worth real money. Lots of teams will line up for Juan's talents, we both just hope it is the White sox. Juan loves his teammates and the city. He never wanted to leave when he was first here in 2006 with the Cubs, it just ended up that way." commented Pierre's agent, Mark Pieper. "Mr. Williams and I have had a few talks this off-season about Juan's future with the team, but he said they're not in a position to discuss a long-term deal with so many factors in limbo."

As stated yesterday, Owner and Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf has stretched the payroll beyond its limits. This is a must win season for the South Side Hitmen, or this team might look very different next year, or even as early as July. Fan support for the team has been growing in the last decade, with the team poised to overtake the Cubs in popularity as long as it can string together playoff appearances and titles. General Manager Williams declined comment on Pierre's contract situation, merely stating, "Juan is a very talented player, I'm glad we were able to bring him in last year. He really helped us stay in the hunt, and we're looking forward to big things from him at the top of the order this year."

[sirotka33]

Featured are (left to right): Mark Buehrle, A.J. Pierzynski, Alex Rios, Paul Konerko, Adam Dunn and Alexei Ramirez.

[sirotka33]

White Sox close spring ball sub-.500 but in good spirits

Glendale, AZ - John Danks is ready to play games that matter. He simply stated that winning every game in spring wasn't the main goal, getting out healthy and ready was the goal.

"It's good to break camp with these guys. I'm so ready to pitch, I can't wait to arrive in Cleveland and get to the grind of the season. We, as ball-players, live for this. It's very important that we get off to a good start, and this spring has laid the ground work for that."

Danks has gone 2-2 with a 3.06 ERA in 6 outings during spring training, prompting Manager Ozzie Guillen to pencil him in as the #2 starter. Mark Buehrle will open the season for the White Sox on April 1st against the Cleveland Indians. This will be his 9th opening day start for the Sox. Buehrle currently ranks 6th in franchise history in games started, 8th in wins and innings pitched. He has also pitched 200 innings for 9 consecutive seasons.

"You know who he is. I know who he is. He is who he is. He gives us good chance to win and battles every time he gets the ball.", said Ozzie Guillen. "This is spring ball, we look at result with grain of salt. Everyone is ready, we had a good spring."

The Sox open with a weekend series at the Cleveland Indians with Buehrle projecting to face Fausto Carmona on friday. Danks will take the hill against Justin Masterson on Saturday and Gavin Floyd will pitch against Mitch Talbot on Sunday.

Juan Pierre will lead-off, followed by Alex Rios in the 2-hole. Paul Konerko, Adam Dunn and Carlos Quentin provide the power in the middle of the order, ending with A.J. Pierzynski, Alexei Ramirez, Gordon Beckham and the rookie Brent Morel.

"We just thought that Brent did enough to break camp as the starter. Ultimately it was Ozzie's decision, but I would like to think it was a collaboration of minds.", added Kenny Williams. "His defense will keep that side of the infield secure, and hopefully he can continue to improve with the bat."

Morel hit just .246 in 54 spring at-bats. The White Sox also have Mark Teahen and Dayan Viciedo as options at 3rd base if the rookie proves to be a liability.

"I'm just anxious. I got to play a little last year, but it's good to know the organization is behind you. Mark (Teahen) has been an excellent mentor and even when we were battling for the job, he always helped me out. Now I just have to go out and prove to the doubters that this decision was the right one. I just want to play.", Morel said.

Play he shall. The roster is set, the spring is over. It's time for baseball.

[sirotka33]

White Sox win debut with 9th inning heroics

Cleveland - Mark Buerhle pitched 8 innings of 2 run ball picking up the victory on opening night against the Indians. He was poised to be the hard-luck loser if not for a 9th inning rally that left the Cleveland faithful reminded of last season. For eight innings, Fausto Carmona kept the White Sox hitters off-balance, not allowing a runner past second base.

Juan Pierre started the ninth inning off with a walk, followed by an Alex Rios single advancing Pierre to 3rd. Konerko kept the inning going with an RBI single making it a 2-1 ballgame and Adam Dunn was hit by a Carmona pitch to load the bases. Carlos Quentin hit a sacrifice fly to right field tying the game and allowing Konerko to advance to 3rd with 1 out. Konerko was lifted in favor of Brent Lillibridge and A.J. Pierzynski got the Sox the lead for good with an RBI double. Matt Thornton worked a perfect ninth to earn the save.

"All game long, I kept saying to myself if I just give us a chance to win, these guys will come through.", said Buerhle. "And, that's exactly what they did. It's a great way to start out the season."

With a win on opening night, the Sox put one foot forward in the right direction. Manager Ozzie Guillen was impressed with the result, but not with the way it happened.

"It was a little exciting for me. Next game, I just hope we dont have that much excitement. Score runs a little earlier, but we take the win."

April 1, 2011

                     1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +  R  H  E
     White Sox (CHW) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3    3  7  0
       Indians (CLE) 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0    2  5  0

CHICAGO                      ab  h bb  r hr bi  k sb     avg
Juan Pierre (LF)              3  1  1  1  0  0  0  0    .333
Alex Rios (CF)                4  2  0  1  0  0  0  0    .500
Paul Konerko (1B)             4  1  0  0  0  1  1  0    .250
 Brent Lillibridge (P)        0  0  0  1  0  0  0  0    .000
 Ramon Castro (P)             0  0  0  0  0  0  0  0    .000
Adam Dunn (DH)                3  1  0  0  0  0  1  0    .333
Carlos Quentin (RF)           3  0  0  0  0  1  2  0    .000
A.J. Pierzynski (C)           4  1  0  0  0  1  0  0    .250
Alexei Ramirez (SS)           3  0  1  0  0  0  0  0    .000
Gordon Beckham (2B)           4  1  0  0  0  0  1  0    .250
Brent Morel (3B)              3  0  0  0  0  0  1  0    .000
TOTALS                       31  7  2  3  0  3  6  0

   2B:  A.J. Pierzynski (1)
   HBP:  Adam Dunn
   GDP:  Brent Morel
   CS:  Alex Rios

                 CHICAGO   ip  h bb hr  r er  k pit    ERA
            Mark Buehrle  8.0  5  1  0  2  2  4 109   2.25
           Matt Thornton  1.0  0  0  0  0  0  2   9   0.00
                  TOTALS  9.0  5  1  0  2  2  6 118

CLEVELAND                    ab  h bb  r hr bi  k sb     avg
Trevor Crowe (CF)             4  0  0  0  0  0  1  0    .000
Asdrubal Cabrera (SS)         3  1  1  0  0  0  0  0    .333
Travis Hafner (DH)            4  0  0  0  0  0  2  0    .000
Shin-Soo Choo (RF)            4  1  0  1  0  0  2  1    .250
Carlos Santana (C)            3  0  0  0  0  0  0  0    .000
Matt LaPorta (1B)             3  1  0  0  0  1  0  0    .333
Austin Kearns (LF)            3  1  0  1  0  0  1  0    .333
 Michael Brantley (P)         0  0  0  0  0  0  0  0    .000
Jayson Nix (3B)               3  1  0  0  0  1  0  0    .333
Orlando Cabrera (2B)          3  0  0  0  0  0  0  0    .000
TOTALS                       30  5  1  2  0  2  6  1

   2B:  Jayson Nix (1)
   CS:  Asdrubal Cabrera 2

   DP:  Orlando Cabrera, Jayson Nix, Matt LaPorta

               CLEVELAND   ip  h bb hr  r er  k pit    ERA
          Fausto Carmona  8.1  7  2  0  3  3  6 105   3.24
             Chad Durbin  0.2  0  0  0  0  0  0   6   0.00
                  TOTALS  9.0  7  2  0  3  3  6 111

     WP: Mark Buehrle (1-0)
     LP: Fausto Carmona (0-1)
     SV: Matt Thornton (1)

     Temperature: 51F
     Wind: 3 MPH (out to right)
     Attendance: 35,933
     Time: 2:15

[sirotka33]

Danks and Bullpen shut down Indians

Cleveland - On a cold afternoon in Cleveland, the White Sox and Indians played the second game of the season opening three game series. 26,260 fans showed up to cheer on the hometown Indians, but left in disappointment again.

John Danks pitched six innings of one run baseball and 3 relievers combined to work a scoreless seventh, eight and ninth. The White Sox (2-0) remained perfect with a 2-1 win over the Indians (0-2). The Sox jumped out a 2-0 lead with runs in the third and fourth innings and that was enough for Danks (1-0 1.50ERA).

Justin Masterson (0-1 1.29) stymied the White Sox offense for 7 innings, but received no run support. Asdrubal Cabrera accounted for the only run, driving in Orlando Cabrera. For the Sox, Juan Pierre and A.J. Pierzynski collected RBIs.

"The kid from Cleveland have sick stuff all day, but we escape again. Morel was lucky to get on base when he threw the ball into the stands, allowing Juan to knock him in. We have to figure out how to score more runs if we're going to continue winning.", said Ozzie Guillen. "Do the little things, move the runner along, steal the base."

Chicago White Sox at Cleveland Indians
April 2, 2011

                     1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +  R  H  E
     White Sox (CHW) 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0    2  5  1
       Indians (CLE) 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0    1  6  2

CHICAGO                      ab  h bb  r hr bi  k sb     avg
Juan Pierre (LF)              4  1  0  0  0  1  0  1    .286
Alex Rios (CF)                4  0  0  0  0  0  0  0    .250
Paul Konerko (1B)             4  1  0  1  0  0  2  0    .250
Adam Dunn (DH)                3  0  1  0  0  0  3  0    .167
Carlos Quentin (RF)           2  1  2  0  0  0  1  0    .200
A.J. Pierzynski (C)           4  1  0  0  0  1  1  0    .250
Alexei Ramirez (SS)           4  0  0  0  0  0  1  0    .000
Gordon Beckham (2B)           3  1  0  0  0  0  1  0    .286
Brent Morel (3B)              3  0  0  1  0  0  0  0    .000
TOTALS                       31  5  3  2  0  2  9  1

   2B:  Paul Konerko (1)
   GDP:  A.J. Pierzynski 2
   E:  Alexei Ramirez

                 CHICAGO   ip  h bb hr  r er  k pit    ERA
              John Danks  6.0  6  0  0  1  1  5 106   1.50
             Jesse Crain  1.0  0  0  0  0  0  1  13   0.00
              Chris Sale  1.0  0  0  0  0  0  0  10   0.00
           Matt Thornton  1.0  0  0  0  0  0  2  13   0.00
                  TOTALS  9.0  6  0  0  1  1  8 142

CLEVELAND                    ab  h bb  r hr bi  k sb     avg
Trevor Crowe (CF)             4  0  0  0  0  0  0  0    .000
Asdrubal Cabrera (SS)         4  1  0  0  0  1  0  0    .286
Travis Hafner (DH)            4  0  0  0  0  0  1  0    .000
Shin-Soo Choo (RF)            4  1  0  0  0  0  0  1    .250
Carlos Santana (C)            4  1  0  0  0  0  1  0    .143
Matt LaPorta (1B)             4  1  0  0  0  0  2  0    .286
Austin Kearns (LF)            4  0  0  0  0  0  2  0    .143
Jayson Nix (3B)               3  0  0  0  0  0  2  0    .167
Orlando Cabrera (2B)          3  2  0  1  0  0  0  1    .333
TOTALS                       34  6  0  1  0  1  8  2

   2B:  Orlando Cabrera (1)

   DP:  Orlando Cabrera 2, Jayson Nix 2, Matt LaPorta 2
   E:  Shin-Soo Choo

               CLEVELAND   ip  h bb hr  r er  k pit    ERA
        Justin Masterson  7.0  5  3  0  2  1  5 109   1.29
             Chad Durbin  2.0  0  0  0  0  0  4  23   0.00
                  TOTALS  9.0  5  3  0  2  1  9 132

     WP: John Danks (1-0)
     LP: Justin Masterson (0-1)
     SV: Matt Thornton (2)

     Temperature: 45F
     Wind: 3 MPH (in from right)
     Attendance: 26,260
     Time: 3:00

[sirotka33]

Beckham error costs Floyd, Sox game

Cleveland - Gordon Beckham booted a routine grounder with two outs in the second inning, allowing the Indians score 3 runs in the inning and jump out to a 4-2 lead. Ultimately this wound up costing the White Sox (2-1) as they fell to the Indians (1-2) by a score of 6-5.

Gavin Floyd, who allowed 5 runs, 3 of them earned over 5+ innings said that it was the nature of the game. "He didn't allow the next two hits to get through, I did that. Just like he has to pick me up from time to time with his solid defensive play, it's my job to pick them up after mistakes. In the end, I just didn't pitch well enough to get us a victory."

Sox catcher A.J. Pierzynski hit a 3-run HR to put the White Sox ahead 5-4 for his 3rd straight game with at least 1 RBI. The Sox now have a travel day before a 2 game set against the Kansas City Royals (3-1) who lead the AL Central in the early going by a half-game over Minnesota and Chicago.

Chicago White Sox at Cleveland Indians
April 3, 2011

                     1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +  R  H  E
     White Sox (CHW) 2 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0    5 10  1
       Indians (CLE) 1 3 0 0 0 2 0 0 x    6  8  0

CHICAGO                      ab  h bb  r hr bi  k sb     avg
Juan Pierre (LF)              5  1  0  0  0  0  0  0    .250
Alex Rios (CF)                3  2  0  2  0  0  0  1    .364
Paul Konerko (1B)             4  0  0  0  0  0  0  0    .167
Adam Dunn (DH)                3  2  1  2  0  1  1  0    .333
Carlos Quentin (RF)           4  2  0  0  0  1  1  0    .333
A.J. Pierzynski (C)           4  1  0  1  1  3  0  0    .250
Alexei Ramirez (SS)           4  1  0  0  0  0  0  0    .091
Gordon Beckham (2B)           4  1  0  0  0  0  0  0    .273
Brent Morel (3B)              3  0  0  0  0  0  0  0    .000
 Mark Teahen (P)              1  0  0  0  0  0  1  0    .000
TOTALS                       35 10  1  5  1  5  3  1

   2B:  Alexei Ramirez (1), Carlos Quentin (1), Juan Pierre (1)
   3B:  Adam Dunn (1)
   HR:  A.J. Pierzynski (1)
   HBP:  Alex Rios
   GDP:  A.J. Pierzynski
   CS:  Alex Rios

   DP:  Paul Konerko, Gordon Beckham, Alexei Ramirez
   E:  Gordon Beckham

                 CHICAGO   ip  h bb hr  r er  k pit    ERA
             Gavin Floyd  5.0  7  0  0  5  3  2  83   5.40
           Sergio Santos  0.0  1  1  0  1  1  0  14   0.00
               Tony Pena  3.0  0  1  0  0  0  4  32   0.00
                  TOTALS  8.0  8  2  0  6  4  6 129

CLEVELAND                    ab  h bb  r hr bi  k sb     avg
Trevor Crowe (CF)             4  0  0  1  0  0  1  1    .000
Asdrubal Cabrera (SS)         3  2  1  1  0  1  0  0    .400
Carlos Santana (C)            4  0  0  0  0  0  0  0    .091
 Lou Marson (P)               0  0  0  0  0  0  0  0    .000
Shin-Soo Choo (RF)            4  2  0  1  0  1  1  0    .333
Matt LaPorta (1B)             3  0  1  1  0  0  0  0    .200
Travis Hafner (DH)            4  2  0  1  0  1  1  0    .167
Austin Kearns (LF)            2  1  0  0  0  0  0  0    .222
 Michael Brantley (P)         1  0  0  0  0  0  0  0    .000
Jayson Nix (3B)               4  1  0  1  0  1  3  0    .200
Orlando Cabrera (2B)          2  0  0  0  0  1  0  0    .250
TOTALS                       31  8  2  6  0  5  6  1

   2B:  Asdrubal Cabrera (1)
   3B:  Jayson Nix (1)
   HBP:  Austin Kearns
   GDP:  Orlando Cabrera

   DP:  Orlando Cabrera, Asdrubal Cabrera, Matt LaPorta

               CLEVELAND   ip  h bb hr  r er  k pit    ERA
            Mitch Talbot  5.0  7  1  1  5  5  1  76   9.00
            Rafael Perez  2.0  2  0  0  0  0  1  23   0.00
               Joe Smith  1.0  1  0  0  0  0  0  11   0.00
             Chris Perez  1.0  0  0  0  0  0  1  10   0.00
                  TOTALS  9.0 10  1  1  5  5  3 120

     WP: Rafael Perez (1-0)
     LP: Sergio Santos (0-1)
     SV: Chris Perez (1)

     Temperature: 54F
     Wind: 4 MPH (out to left)
     Attendance: 25,890
     Time: 2:31

[sirotka33]

Robinson Cano, Yankees agree to 6 year, 114 million dollar deal

New York - The New York Yankees locked up their 28 year-old franchise 2B through the 2016 season by rewarding Robinson Cano with a new 6 year deal and tearing up the old one.

"Robinson had out played the team options left in his deal, and we made it very clear to Mr. Cashman and Mr. Steinbrenner that if they exercised either option, we were going to test the waters after the 2013 season.", Cano agent Scott Boras had to say. "This deal was able to get done without it getting too heated on either side. Both sides came to an agreement on Robinson's tremendous talent and value."

By completing the deal, the Yankees are giving Robinson an extra $10M over the next two seasons, in hopes that the final three are at somewhat of a discount. GM Brian Cashman and Owner Hank Steinbrenner were not immediately available for comment.

[Moynes]

Nice start man very detailed, got me interested. But I was wondering is that one post your predictions on the year? oh it is I'm a retard I just read your first post again haha

[sirotka33]

Nice start man very detailed, got me interested. But I was wondering is that one post your predictions on the year? oh it is I'm a retard I just read your first post again haha

Yes, those are the predictions, sorry!