The Ranger’s saved face last night and avoided a second consecutive sweep by the Sox, winning Game 3, 2-0, in front of a packed house in Arlington, Texas. With this loss, the Sox saw their 5 game win streak come to an end as their bats fell silent in the series finale. After averaging 7 runs in the first two wins in Arlington Texas, the Sox were shutdown by Ranger pitcher Scott Feldman. Despite the loss, the Sox still won their season series against Texas for the first time since 2004. This was the last time the Sox will face the Rangers this season. The next possible match-up between the two teams would be the ALCS (American League Championship Series) in the playoffs. Let’s think positive, people!
What You Need to Know:
- The Sox fell victim to Ranger’s pitcher, Scott Feldman who won his 5th straight game after he had started the season 0-6. His 8 shutout innings gave way to closer Joe Nathan to seal the ChiSox fate in the ninth, earning his 21st save of the year.
- Gavin Floyd was hoping to continue his recent success but gave up 2 runs (only one being his fault) which would end up being enough to hand him his 9th loss of the year. Another close game that could have gone the Sox way had their offense squeaked out a couple runs. The Sox left 6 men on base Sunday night.
Chris Sale
- Don’t panic when you hear that Chris Sale has a “dead arm”. Sale has been a workhorse this year, pitching more than he ever has (almost twice as many innings as last year!) and as one might expect, he is tired. He will be resting his throwing arm while the newly acquired Francisco Liriano will join the rotation.
- AJ Pierzynski missed his 5th straight game on Sunday due to an oblique strain he suffered during the Sox series against Minnesota last week. AJ said he could have played Sunday but welcomed the extra day of rest. He is expected to start tonight.
Your Take Away Piece: “Although the White Sox win streak peaked at 5, it was plenty to keep the Detroit Tigers at bay as they lost their series against the Toronto Blue Jays over the weekend. The Sox cling to a 1.5 game lead in the standings and welcome another series with the lowly Twins this week. Look for General Manager Kenny Wiliams to be actively looking for more players to acquire by the trading deadline.”
What’s Next: Good News! The Sox head on the road to Target Field to take on the Minnesota Twins (again). The Sox swept the Twins at home last week and will look to gain a little breathing room between the 2nd place Tigers. Tuesdays match-up will be dramatic as the Sox new pitcher Francisco Liriano will be facing the team he played for only a week ago!
