The All-Star Break is a chance for players to get away from the game and live normally for 3 days...and then go back to work. Sometimes the break gives new life to a player, often that is not the case. However, this season the ChiSox have emerged from the depths of a season-long fog to reach the sunlight and show that they have as much talent as the other AL Central contenders, the Twins and Tigers.
Actually, the Sox can play better. If Carlos Quintin keeps up his pace, or backs off just a bit, and Gordon Beckham, continues to make contact, the Sox are going to be competitive. The pitching for the Sox has been sterling. Each starter is capable of going out and getting into the 8th inning. And, the Sox can close the door in the 9th.
Paul Konerko was added to the All-Star team as a replacement for Morneau, the Twin's talented first-baseman, His addition is deserved. He leads the team in Hr's and Rbi's, although Quintin is just behind him in both categories.
Alex Rios has 15 homeruns, 49 rbi's and is hitting for average, around .305 for the season. He is having a very good year. If Beckham can find his hitting stroke in the second-half, it should be interesting. Mark Kotsay has been doing a decent job as DH. He can hit for power and move runners along. Alexei Ramirez has surprising power and can do damage on a pitcher's mistake. You have to pitch to him carefully. The Sox are showing that they have talent...they just have to use what talents they have and come to the park ready to play. If they do, The ChiSox could be in the playoffs in October.
