Sox Win Game and Series with 3-1 Victory Over Giants (Game 43, '08)

This was far from a perfect game.  The White Sox stranded 14 runners, not doing nearly as much damage as I thought they could have off Zito.  At least for me, things got a little too interesting, especially in the seventh inning, when the Giants loaded the bases off Buehrle, but Dotel did a great job leaving the runners on base.  Buehrle finally picked up his second win on the season, pitching very well.  Linebrink and Jenks were great as usual, and while I don't like the stranded runners, the pitching staff continues to impress. I will be especially interested in the upcoming Cleveland series at home. Both pitching staffs have been great, while both offenses have had their struggles.  It is hard for me to believe Cleveland's team batting average is less than the Sox, but so far that is the case. 

With tonight's victory, the White Sox have guaranteed themselves an above-500 West Coast road trip.  I am very happy with the way this team has picked themselves up and did what needed to be done to win ballgames, even if the offense has been less-than stellar.  It is hard to ask the pitching staff to do much more than it already has done.  I would like to see these hitters be the guys we know they can be, and get 'over the hump' with runners in scoring position.  The Sox do well getting guys on.  Now they have to get them in. They will have a chance to do just that again tomorrow as they go for the sweep.