White Sox' defensive doings

Scot Gregor looks at how the White Sox' projected regulars rate as defensive players:

1B Paul Konerko: According to UZR statistics, Konerko is among the worst first basemen in the game. But Konerko usually makes the plays he should, and few are better at scooping balls out of the dirt.

2B Gordon Beckham: Natural shortstop should be much better this season. Not only does he have a full year of experience at second, Beckham often dragged his offensive struggles into the field in 2010.

SS Alexei Ramirez: He deserved to win the Gold Glove last season, but Derek Jeter won it on reputation. No shortstop in either league has better range than Ramirez.

3B Brent Morel: Another former shortstop, his stellar defensive play in September drew quick comparisons to Joe Crede. We'll see about that, but Morel looks like a keeper.

C A.J. Pierzynski: While his throwing arm is still a problem, Pierzynski rarely makes mistakes and is as durable as they come.

LF Juan Pierre Laugh about his throwing arm; everybody does. To his credit, Pierre has a knack for running down flyballs and recording outs.

CF Alex Rios: Played like a Gold Glover in the first half of 2010 but wore down on defense after the all-star break and made some sloppy plays.

RF Carlos Quentin: He also had a brutal UZR rating last season and was one of the worst outfield defenders in the game. Quentin trimmed down over the winter, so maybe that will help.