Dye remains the steady veteran in right field

Eighth in a series

Editor's note: As the countdown continues toward the April 6 opener for the White Sox, Daily Herald Sports Writer Scot Gregor will offer his analysis of each position on the team and the key issues facing the club this season.

Q. He said he understands, but will off-season trade rumors - and possibly in season ones as well - affect Jermaine Dye?

Gregor: Doubtful. Dye has been around the game for a long time and he's developed a solid knack for blocking out all the rumors and rumblings that accompany the game. He just plays baseball, and he plays it very well when healthy.

Q. Explain the importance of Dye to this team - off the field.

Gregor: He's a 12-year veteran, the 2005 World Series MVP and a two-time all-star.

Still, Dye remains one of the most underrated players in the game for some reason. Maybe it's because he doesn't make a lot of outrageous comments when talking with the media.

Facts are facts, though, and Dye leads all American League outfielders in home runs (137) and RBI (378) over the last four seasons.

In the clubhouse, he is a huge presence. Just ask younger outfielders like Carlos Quentin, Jerry Owens and Brian Anderson.

Q. Is this his last season with the Sox, regardless?

Gregor: Most likely.

Dye would probably be wearing a different uniform right now had another team been willing to absorb his total salary ($11.5 million) for the upcoming season.

It didn't happen, but Dye still has a $12 million option for 2010 that the White Sox can buy out for $1 million.

Unless the 35-year-old outfielder wins the MVP this year or the economy takes a positive swings, it looks like "he gone."

Q. If he does leave after or during this season, what will his legacy be?

Gregor: Dye is always going to be remembered for stepping up and helping the White Sox sweep the Houston Astros in the 2005 World Series.

He should also be remembered for being a consummate pro that never complained and tried playing through more than a few injuries.

But the guess here is Dye will never be revered like some of his other teammates (Paul Konerko, A.J. Pierzynski, Mark Buehrle, even Bobby Jenks). Maybe it's because he played for the Braves, Royals and A's before arriving on the South Side four years ago. Or maybe it's because he's such a low-key performer. Most likely, it's a combination of both.

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