Chicago White Sox Impress Early, Continue Recent Success
Buehrle, Konerko Lead Charge For Southsiders
The White Sox had a strong April, closing out the month with a 14–10 record, and they currently sit in first place in the AL Central. Edwin Jackson has been Chicago's standout performer thus far, going 3-0 with a 2.08 ERA and 27 strikeouts in four starts. Gordon Beckham continues to impress with his hitting, batting .308 with 5 doubles, 2 triples, and 10 RBI. Dayan Viciedo also has been hot, batting .316 with 4 doubles, 3 homers, and 11 RBI.
Despite some early struggles, the bullpen has been solid for the White Sox, with Sergio Santos converting 4 of 5 save opportunities and Chris Sale striking out 15 batters in 10.2 innings of work. The White Sox have a tough schedule in May, but they have shown that they are a team to be reckoned with in 2013.
Rotation Showing Stability
The White Sox rotation has been one of the most consistent in baseball this season. Jake Peavy has been excellent, going 5-0 with a 2.15 ERA in seven starts. Chris Sale has also been solid, going 4-1 with a 3.48 ERA in six starts. John Danks has been the only starter to struggle, going 2-4 with a 5.54 ERA in six starts.
The White Sox have a deep rotation, with Edwin Jackson, Gavin Floyd, and Dylan Axelrod all capable of being effective starters. This depth will be key for the White Sox as they try to make a run at the playoffs in 2013.
Offense Heating Up
The White Sox offense has been one of the most productive in baseball this season. Gordon Beckham has been a key part of the offense, leading the team in batting average (.325), on-base percentage (.382), and slugging percentage (.514). Alexei Ramirez has also been a key contributor, batting .291 with 5 doubles, 4 triples, and 13 RBI.
The White Sox have a lot of power in their lineup, with Dayan Viciedo, Adam Dunn, and Paul Konerko all capable of hitting 20 or more home runs. This power will be key for the White Sox as they try to score runs in bunches this season.
Conclusion
The White Sox are off to a strong start in 2013 and are currently in first place in the AL Central. The rotation has been excellent, the offense has been productive, and the bullpen has been solid. If the White Sox can continue to play at this level, they will be a contender in the AL Central in 2013.
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