Garland, Sox continue to handle Tigers
DETROIT -- If the White Sox played the Tigers at Comerica Park every game, manager Ozzie Guillen probably would have a lifetime contract in his back pocket.
Continuing an improbable run of success against the defending American League champions on Tuesday night, the Sox beat Detroit 3-1, their fourth straight victory in the Motor City.
The White Sox have won eight of their last nine on the Tigers' home turf and, dating to 2004, they are 20-7 at Comerica Park.
"For some reason, every time we come here we play good,'' Guillen said. "The reason? Don't ask me.''
The latest win was fueled by struggling starter Jon Garland, who allowed 1 run on 7 hits over 7 innings while winning for the first time since July 27.
"He was attacking the strike zone and getting early contact,'' Guillen said. "That's the way he was pitching for me for a long time.''
After Josh Fields hit a solo home run in the third inning to put the White Sox in front, Alex Cintron's 2-run shot in the sixth decided the outcome.
It was the first home run of the season for Cintron, who started slowly after having elbow surgery in the off-season. He also was on the bereavement list three times.
"Tough, tough year,'' Cintron said. "I had my first surgery and I had to go to Puerto Rico three times. Plus, the team has struggled and when I had a chance to play I didn't produce.''
Guillen, who assumed much of the blame, is signed through next year, and he has a club option for 2009. A report on WMVP 1000-AM on Tuesday indicated the White Sox are planning to give Guillen a contract extension at the end of the season.
"There's nothing out there,'' Guillen said. "Do I want it? Of course. But I don't expect anything, especially the way we're playing. I don't have the guts to ask them. I'd be very happy to talk to them. To me, I'm not in the right situation to ask for anything.''
On Aug. 24, chairman Jerry Reinsdorf said he has given Guillen an "A'' grade this season, even though the Sox are in last place in the AL Central. Last week, general manager Kenny Williams also threw his support behind Guillen.
Both Reinsdorf and Williams have blamed injuries, an inexperienced bullpen and even bad breaks for the Sox' worst season in 18 years.
It's quite obvious they don't blame Guillen, who guided the White Sox to the World Series championship two years ago.
Guillen was a standout shortstop for the Sox from 1985-97, and he has been manager since 2004. When it comes to most passionate White Sox fans, Guillen certainly is in the team photo.
While there is no doubt Guillen is like a son to Reinsdorf, the 43-year-old manager doesn't want nepotism to be construed in a possible new deal.
"Like I've said in the past, I don't want them to feel like I'm part of this family and they don't do the right thing for this organization,'' Guillen said. "If Kenny and Jerry think I'm the best one for this club and the next one, I'm willing to do it. But in the meanwhile, they don't owe me anything."
White Sox 3, Tigers 1
On the mound: Starter Jon Garland got the win by pitching 7 innings and allowing 1 run on 7 hits.
At the plate: Alex Cintron hit his first home run of the season, a 2-run shot in the sixth inning. Jermaine Dye was 1-for-2 before leaving with a strained left groin.
-- Scot Gregor