Chicago White Sox mid season review

It really looked like the Chicago White Sox were going to be sellers this season. They started off in April with a 9-14 record and looked to be left behind by the Minnesota Twins and Detroit Tigers. However this team has continued to play well through a lot of behind the scenes drama. In May they went 13-14, and then caught fire with an 18-9 June and an unreal record of 15-3 in interleague play. Overall they have a 46-38 record and find themselves just half a game from leading the American League Central.

The offense has scored 365 runs, and as a team is hitting .253. They have collected 702 hits, of which 136 were doubles, 8 were triples, and 90 were home runs. Their hitters have struck out 438 times, and walked 254 times. Those numbers suggest that this is a team that does not give away at bats, and it would seem that is the key to their success. They grind, they get on base, and then good things happen.

Their pitching staff is a real mixed bag. Very up down, but they have a staff ERA of 4.05, and they have given up 355 runs. They have struck out 610 batters, and issued 256 walks. Bobby Jenks, their closer, has converted 19 saves and as an overall record of 1-1 with a 3.98 ERA. It seems quite clear that there is some work to be done both in the starting five and in the bullpen.

Since it looks like Jake Peavey is lost for the balance of the season, it will be critical for the White Sox to find another starting pitcher at the trade deadline. Cliff Lee is now a Texas Ranger, and Roy Oswalt has said he would block a trade to the Windy City. So GM Kenny Williams might have to get creative to get the arm his team needs.

Related Links:

•Chicago White Sox news and notes
•The Business of Major League Baseball
•MTR Baseball.com