Frank impressed by Sox’ strong start

[Jabroni]

http://www.dailyherald.com/sports/whitesox.asp?id=40300

Thomas impressed by Sox’ strong start

By Scot Gregor

Daily Herald Sports Writer

Posted Sunday, April 24, 2005

 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Still at least one month away from returning to the lineup, Frank Thomas is just going along for the ride on the White Sox’ eight-game road trip.

 

He’s enjoying the view.

 

“I’m just blown away by what this team’s accomplishing,’’ said Thomas, who is still recovering from a fractured left ankle. “I think everybody underestimated the pitching this team has. One through five, they’re (starters) going out and getting the job done. We probably have three or four aces right now.’’

 

While Thomas is eager to get back on the field — he hasn’t played since July 4 — the 36-year-old designated hitter said the team’s impressive start actually is helping him cope with being sidelined.

 

“The way they’re playing, it’s not like I need to rush back and help them out,’’ Thomas said. “I want to get back as soon as I can, but they’re doing great without me. It’s beautiful what’s going on right now.’’

 

In addition to taking batting practice with his teammates, Thomas also is lending support any way he can. One of his projects is keeping a close eye on free-swinging shortstop Juan Uribe.

 

“I talk to him every day,’’ Thomas said. “I’m just reminding him to keep calm when he’s hitting. He can get all out of whack, and that’s when he struggles. But when he stays in control, he’s a dangerous hitter. I’m just trying to do whatever I can to help. I’m trying to support these guys, and they deserve it.’’

 

Still streaking: Joe Crede extended his career-best hitting streak to 14 games with a single in the fourth inning.

 

Crede has been on fire after opening the season with 2 hits in his first 18 at-bats. During his streak, Crede is batting .408 (20-for-49) with 6 doubles, 3 home runs and 8 RBI.

 

Shuffle it up: After starting the first 17 games, center fielder Aaron Rowand was held out of the lineup Saturday.

 

Scott Podsednik moved over to center, and Ross Gload made his first start in left field. Manager Ozzie Guillen said he will try getting Gload into the starting lineup again today.

 

“I want him to play back-to-back games to get more at-bats,’’ Guillen said. “I’m going to play (Pablo) Ozuna the next couple of days. Willie (Harris) might start (today).

 

“That’s the way we’ll play here because I want everybody to feel like they’re part of the team. And to feel like we’re counting on them and to feel like I need them to be ready when the times come for them.’’

 

Rowand batted for Gload in the eighth and ended up hitting a game-winning single in the 10th.

[aboz56]

Glad to see Frank is paying a close eye on the Sox and helping Uribe along.

 

Looks like we're going to need his bat if Dye continues to swing it in a funk.