It’s Not Over, But It’s Close – Lineups 9/30

It’s not over yet, but it’s close. When The B-team met at home plate yesterday to greet Orlando Hudson following an opposite field grand slam that kept the White Sox from being shut out, I couldn’t help but smile. These misfits, defensive replacements, pinch runners and maybe even somebody that shouldn’t even be on a major league roster (you can pick which) were quite the sight. After a season spent almost entirely in first place, the guys who weren’t a huge part of it, and aren’t actually likely to be part of the future will be the lasting image that I take with me as the final game I’ve viewed in person at U.S. Cellular Field in 2012. Ain’t that something?

Yuck it up while you can, fellas. Rob Grabowski-US PRESSWIRE

The Sox will now toe the line of playing out the string and waiting on a miracle. It starts with this, the final home game, against the Rays. Jose Quintana, who is likely going to be a part of the 2013 rotation goes to the mound against Cy Young candidate David Price. While they are staying technically alive, the White Sox also have the opportunity to eliminate the Rays completely from contention. A loss alone ends their AL East hopes and a loss coupled with a win by the A’s knocks Tampa out completely. So there’s that.

Today’s Lineup:

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

Robin is running the regular lineup out there, as he should. Nothing should be completely abandoned this close to the end until elimination is official. Also, as fan appreciation day this could be the final home game as a White Sox for A.J. Probably Wise and Youkilis as well, but mostly A.J.

Where to Watch
Game available in Chicago on Comcast SportsNet, in Tampa on Sun Sports and the game will be nationally televised on TBS. 1:10 Central start time.