The Key dates on White Sox schedule

Opening Day is late this season, but perhaps the warm weather will stay around.

There are many other key dates on the White Sox schedule this season, including a few sets with Albert Pujols and the Angels, and a visit to Albert's old home in St. Louis.

Here's a look at some key dates, and go online at dailyherald.com to find a printable schedule with this story.

April 13:

The White Sox play six road games at Texas and Cleveland before opening at home. Either Gavin Floyd or Jake Peavy is likely to get the ball against the Tigers, who won the AL Central by 15 games last season and added Prince Fielder.

May 16-17:

Minus a quick two-game trip to the West Coast in May, the Sox are in town for 15 days. The White Sox get their first look at Albert Pujols in a Los Angeles Angels uniform when they head to California.

June 12:

Off to Busch Stadium for the first time since 2001. It'll be strange seeing the defending World Series champs without Tony La Russa in the dugout.

June 18:

The Sox welcome the Cubs to the Cell. None of the three home games vs. their big rivals sold out last year, but they were played Monday-Wednesday.

July 23:

The White Sox might feel out of place hosting the first of three games vs. the Twins. From July 13-Aug. 1, they play 16 of 19 on the road. How will they handle that stretch?

July 31:

The Sox are in Minnesota at the trade deadline. General manager Kenny Williams could be in full sell mode.

Aug. 3:

Albert Pujols and the Angels come to the Cell. Will he be in MVP form or struggling from the pressure of his huge contract?

Aug. 20:

For all the Yankees fans waiting for that one trip in every season, here it is.

Oct. 3:

White Sox close the season at Cleveland. Will it be as bad of a year as so many expect or a pleasant surprise?