We’re Not Bruce Chen Fans – Lineups 7/7

Last night Gordon Beckham stepped up and helped the White Sox to victory in game 1 of a 3 game set with the Royals. This is significant because the White Sox have had some inexplicable troubles against the Kansas City crew and were in danger of wasting a serious effort from Chris Sale prior to Gordo’s blast. In game 2, a series win can be achieved and, if the Yankees can help out a bit, the White Sox can add a game to the AL Central lead.

Bruce Chen has always seemed like a tough opponent for the Sox, having been christened Cy Chen by broadcaster Ken Harrelson. Last time out, the Sox kicked that idea away as they put up 6 runs in less than 5 innings against the crafty lefty. Chen has seen more struggles than success this season; the numbers say the Pale Hose shouldn’t have too much trouble getting on the board against him.

Jake Peavy is hoping to keep the “god bless it!” shouts to a minimum against a youthful but talented Royals lineup. Jake is coming off of a pair of excellent starts, the latter of which he went 8 innings and struck out 8 to earn a 3-2 victory over the Twins.

1.Danks – CF
2.Youk – 3B
3.Dunn – DH
4.Konerko – 1B
5.Rios – RF
6.AJ – C
7.Alexei – SS
8.Dayan – LF
9.Gordo – 2B

Alejandro De Aza will miss a second straight game with back stiffness, allowing Jordan Danks some additional playing time. Jordan did well during his fill-in last night going 1-3 with a run and flashing the outfield speed we’ve all been hearing about for years. A.J. might have seen his HR streak come to an end but he still went 2-3 in the opening contest so he’s seeing the ball well and also has some history of success against Chen.