White Sox hoping to stay healthy, over achieve in 2013
Last season, the Chicago White Sox had little to no pre-season hype. In an AL Central division that was dominated by the Detroit Tigers, and first time manager Robin Ventura at the wheel, not many had high expectations for the south siders. Throughout the season the Sox impressed fans and the media by leading the AL Central for most of the season. It was not until late when they lost out on a post-season birth. Although the Sox did not make the post season, their 85-77 record is looked at as a positive move in getting back to the World Series. With a rejuvenated and energetic pitching staff, and a year of experience under the skippers belt, 2013 could be another step in the right direction.
Pitching, Pitching, Pitching
There is no secret to great MLB teams; it’s good pitching. The Chicago White Sox are very comfortable with their starting pitching rotation that features new ace Chris Sale and all-star capable veteran Jake Peavey at the front of the rotation. A dark horse candidate for the AL Cy Young for the beginning of last year, Chris Sale is getting the opening day nod this year, and expectations are high for the young pitcher. During his first full season as a starter, Sale posted a 17-8 record, with a 3.05 ERA. For 2012 being his first full season as a starter, everyone in the Sox organization is looking for even better results, and the hope that he can stave of the sophomore slump season.
Veteran ace Jake Peavy is coming off an 11-12 season, but looks to improve as he continues to stay healthy (knock on wood). With a consistant ERA of 3.37 last season, time has shown he is best when healthy. We might be past his All-Star/Cy Young days of San DIego, but this veteran still has a lot of gas left in the tank. Peavy is the number two starter in the rotation.
The biggest question mark in the Sox rotation is former ace and first in the rotation guy John Danks. Danks will start this season out on the DL, and an exact date on his return is TBA. Hopefully it is sooner rather than later for the Sox.
The Old Guys
Much of the White Sox unexpected success last season comes from the part of a few long time veterans. Paul Konerko, Alex Rios, Adam Dunn and A.J. Pierzynski all had great years last year, even thou father time is starting to knock on the door. Each of the four saw an increase in batting average, home runs and slugging percentage. With A.J. gone through free agency, the Sox will lean on franchise player Konerko, and rejuvenated players Rios and Dunn for some offensive power.
Fingers Crossed
While I am a very biased writer and fan, I must be realistic. If we have another season like last, I will be surprised. For the most part, we stayed healthy and everyone seemed to have a great year. Even with the great years had by our offense, we still came up short on the post season. Of course I want to say we can make the world series, but really…I will be happy for another second place finish and .500 average. While this team has some good players and talent, it just cannot match up with the Tigers in the AL Central. Either way, GO GO WHITE SOX!
Sox Parking
Unfortunately, SpotHero does not have any parking options near US Cellular Field, but that wont keep us from telling our fans where the best parking is! The great thing about the Cell is that it is not in Wrigleyville. What I mean by that is, there is actually space to park! While most of the lots start around $15 a game, if you are willing to walk a bit you can find street parking or lot parking for much cheaper and sometimes even free! You can check out all the official Chicago White Sox Parking information on their website, and also make sure to take a peek at the Sox parking map they provide.
Of course, if SpotHero ventures to the South Side for White Sox parking we will let everyone know! Until then, go Sox!