Vizquel happy with hit, not so happy with his role

CLEVELAND - Omar Vizquel had mixed emotions Tuesday.

On the one hand, the White Sox' 43-year-old utility infielder was understandably proud about singling in the fifth inning against the Indians on Monday night.

It was Vizquel's 2,674th hit as a shortstop, tying him for second place on the all-time list with his idol Luis Aparicio, a Hall of Famer who played for the White Sox from 1956-62 and again from 1968-70.

The Yankees' Derek Jeter is No. 1 on the list with 2,783 hits.

"I feel really proud because no one really recognizes me as an offensive hitter, and you've got 2,700 hits and tied one of the best shortstops that ever played the game - it's a really huge accomplishment," Vizquel said. "I never thought I was really ever going to be involved in something like that."

On the other hand, the 11-time Gold Glove winner is not enjoying playing such a minor role with the Sox.

Barring an unexpected change, Vizquel is likely to announce his retirement at the end of the year - assuming he makes it through the season.

"It's hard to say," Vizquel said. "It's hard to play in the role that I am when you're used to playing every day. It's hard preparation; sometimes you feel disappointed, sometimes you're sad. Your mental process is different. You take different ways to prepare, and I don't know if I can do it another year.

"I could probably do it because physically I feel pretty good, but mentally it takes a toll on your body. It makes you doubt sometimes. I don't think I want to go through that process again.

"I have to finish this season pretty strong, and if I feel like I finish the way I really want to I might give it a thought to go another year."

Vizquel has started 11 times for the White Sox in 45 games and he's batting .200.