This one was exactly what it looks like from the box score: an unexciting, fast-paced pitcher’s duel. It was lefty ace Ricky Romero, who has had the White Sox’ number in his career, including an impressive victory at U.S. Cellular Field earlier in the year.
The offense was pretty nonexistent outside of Kevin Youkilis’ 2R HR in the 5th inning, as he picked up the game-winning RBI in the 4th consecutive ball game. As that trade continues to look genius on the part of Kenny Williams, the offense continues to be rather inconsistent. But the team is on a 5-game winning streak, which has been fueled by dominant starting pitching in addition to Youk’s timely hitting.
That smile sure has been great to see. Photo courtesy NW Herald
– Gavin Floyd was superb today, tossing 7 2/3 scoreless innings in which he pitched quickly, efficiently, and never let a jam get the best of him. In my opinion, Gavin has officially turned the corner. As I’ve said so many times, he has been able to overcome mighty struggles year-in and year-out, consistently being able to put together good seasons from about June or July on. After Floyd struggled to keep the Sox in games for over a month, he has now put together three great starts while only mixing in one mediocre start in the Bronx, which certainly is not anything to lose sleep over. He seems like he will indeed be able to settle in to the number four (or so) slot in the rotation down the stretch, which would be all Sox fans could ask for from the veteran right hander.
I think it’s fair to say that the Sox have already finished the first half on a high note, but they’ll take on the Blue Jays one more time tomorrow afternoon on the south side for good measure, as the first-place White Sox go for the sweep. Dylan Axelrod has been pretty good in his last couple of starts, despite going up against the Yankees and Rangers. This start could be big for him, as it’d be great to have someone to turn to in case John Danks and Phil Humber’s rehab and recovery processes don’t go as planned.
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Posted by Founder and Managing Editor of GSB!, Zach Gropper. Go, go White Sox!