Apr 9, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Chicago White Sox first baseman Jose Abreu (79) hits a single during the third inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
Rookie first baseman Jose Abreu hit two home runs in the first of a four game series against the Cleveland Indians. After launching his second home run off Indians’ Josh Outman in the fifth inning, Abreu produced his second multi-homerun game in three days. Not a small accomplishment for the rookie that now is first in the league with 14 RBI and tied for second in home runs at four.
Abreu batting fourth for the White Sox in – front of Adam Dunn – gives the team a powerful middle of the line-up. Holding a .300 average and .725 SLG% through 10 games, Abreu has asserted himself as a threat in the American League Central. In seven conference games, Abreu has nine RBI and averages nearly four at bats a game when playing in the conference.
For the Sox, having a strong bat in the line-up is extremely important, especially with the starting pitching playing well through the first ten games of the season.
To finish the series against the Indians, and go into a day off, the Sox will have favorable match-ups. Carlos Carrasco (6.35 ERA), Justin Masterson (4.22 ERA) and Corey Klubar (7.71 ERA) are due up for the Indians.
Holding the second spot in the AL Central at 5-5, it will be important for the White Sox to get crucial division wins early in the season. And, most importantly, hold a strong record at home where the White Sox are now 3-1.