Sipping the Sox Kool-aid

Michael Bottigliero, Sox Superfan

Ok, I admit.  With the Sox latest win streak I was sipping the Sox Kool-aid.  The homers were flying, our hitters were finally waking from their spring sleep, and I saw some motivated and hungry eyes.  Then the Sox went to Detroit and all of that went away.

The White Sox were swept by the Tigers and managed only six runs.  Today was perhaps the worst loss because Mark Buerhle pitched great and our hitters were continously stifled by a gambler only surpassed in age by James Garner.  The Tigers could have put Johnny Chan on the mound today and still would have beat the Sox.  Every swing was an uppercut and led to pop-ups and flyouts.

This further supports my claim for a speed player.  The Sox can score so many runs with this lineup when all is right.  1 thru 9 they look as tough as any top team but when they are slumping, which is happening all too often, they still lack a player who can create trouble with speed and stolen bases.  A speed player can get on base and turn walks or singles into doubles and triples.  In games such as our 2-1 loss today, this player could have turned the tide earlier and put 1 or 2 runs on the board.

I hate to play the laptop GM but I will attempt to throw a few names out there:

Brian Roberts.  This speedy 2B can hit well and steal.  He would be a great addition to the top of the lineup but could be pricey.

Bill Hall.  This guy wants off the Brewers, has speed, hits for some power, and maybe some work with Greg Walker will do him some good.  I think he may be had for less.

Kenny Lofton.  He is old but can still bust it out.  He batted .296 last season and had 23 stolen bases.  The best thing- he can be had for nothing!  Sign this free agent!

If the inconsistency continues I hope Kenny Williams has a plan to push some speed burner to the top of the order.  Hold on Sox fans- it promises to be a great ride!