Chicago White Sox (-133)
Sat Aug 23 ‘08 3:55p
The Chicago White Sox(73-54) have been a potent opponent for much of their current campaign , getting the job done, with some top tier pitching and consistent offensive explosions. That was not the case yesterday however, when they lost a 9-4 decision to Tampa Bay in the first game of this weekend set here in US Cellular Field, for their fourth straight loss in the season series. The Pale Hose will be primed for a rebound effort against the ace of the Rays rotation Scott Kazmir (9-6, 3.21 ERA). The hard throwing southpaw has not been his usual self , in recent outings, with his key pitches rarely hitting the strike zone, which has resulted in some shortened outings, which has seen him fail to make it past the the 5th inning in four of his L/5 starts. During a current three game span, he has garnered a uncharacteristic 5.28 ERA. That could mean big trouble, against a White Sox team that is 45-19 on the season at home while averaging 6 RPG. Meanwhile, the ChiSox will return fire with Javier Vazquez(10-10, 4.34 ERA). The right hander is in top form , pitching into the 8th inning in two consecutive starts and subsequent wins, allowing just 1 ER during that span . Final notes & Key Trends: The White Sox have faired well against hard throwing hurlers at home like Kazmir this season , that strike out an average of 5 or more batters per appearance, notching a solid 8-1 mark against the monyeline . White Sox are 5-0 in their last 5 games following a loss. Look for the south siders to get the job done in this spot and post the W