Thome hits career home run No. 499

Jim Thome took another step toward history today.

The White Sox' 37-year-old designated hitter led off the fourth inning with a solo home run to right field off Cleveland Indians starting pitcher Jake Westbrook.

The 366-foot blast gives Thome 499 home runs for his career.

Thome is one homer away from becoming the 23rd player in major-league history to reach the 500 plateau. Frank Thomas of the Toronto Blue Jays and the New York Yankees' Alex Rodriguez also hit their 500th home runs this season.