Jackson's defense the latest Sox discovery in 3-1 win
We're learning more and more about these high-flying Chicago White Sox.
We already know the Sox improved the American League's best record to 22-10 Sunday with a 3-1 win over the Twins at U.S. Cellular Field, completing a three-game sweep in the process.
We know that Sunday's winner, Jose Quintana (1.38 ERA), is now considered one of the top starters in the game - not a mystery outside of 35th and Shields.
We know Chris Sale is still the ace, and Mat Latos (5-0) is already a bargain with a $3 million salary.
We also know Jose Abreu is going to keep on hitting, and new cleanup man Todd Frazier is going to provide needed protection.
In Sunday's win, we discovered why the White Sox signed center fielder Austin Jackson to a one-year, $5 million contract almost three weeks into spring training.
"His defense is fantastic," manager Robin Ventura said.
The Sox knew Jackson was a premier defender in center, and the 29-year-old Texan was on top of his game against the Twins.
With Quintana scuffling in the first inning, Jackson used his great speed to move in and catch Miguel Sano's sinking line drive before throwing to Brett Lawrie at second base and completing a double play.
"I wasn't really sure where (Twins baserunner Eduardo Nunez) was at," Jackson said. "On a ball hit like that, you're just really trying to focus on catching it and then you look up and you realize that you've got a chance of doubling him off at second."
In the ninth inning, Jackson tapped his speed again, tracking down a deep drive off the bat of Oswaldo Arica. Before heading back to the dugout, Arcia waved his helmet at Jackson.
"You know you made a good catch," Jackson said of Arcia's gesture. "It's just a matter of trying to get to it, really. I've always said if I can get to it, I've got a good chance of catching it."
While Arcia was doffing his cap as a sign of respect, White Sox closer David Robertson was pumping his arm on the mound in support of another big defensive play from Jackson.
Arica was the first out of the ninth, and Robertson struck out pinch-hitter Joe Mauer, walked pinch-hitter Brian Dozier and struck out Eddie Rosario looking to notch his 10th save in 11 opportunities.
"I was excited," Robertson said. "It was a great catch. I didn't think he was going to catch it. I wasn't even sure if it was going to stay in the park."
Like Sale on Saturday night, Quintana wasn't sharp in the first inning, but the 27-year-old lefty got better as the game progressed.
"I missed a lot of pitches, but I tried to get the outs," Quintana (5-1) said after winning his fourth straight decision. "It was more good after that. I felt better commanding."
Ventura and trainer Herm Schneider visited the mound in the seventh inning, and the thought of losing Quintana to injury put a temporary gloom over the game.
As it turned out, Quintana was only experiencing some cramping in his left hand.
"My fingers, I couldn't move them in this moment," Quintana said. "Never happened before. I was scared, but it's not bad. Just one pitch and a little cramp."
White Sox vs. Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park
TV: WPWR today; Comcast SportsNet Tuesday-Wednesday
Radio: WLS 890-AM
Pitching matchups: The Sox's Miguel Gonzalez (0-0) vs. Colby Lewis (2-0) today at 7:05 p.m.; Carlos Rodon (1-4) vs. Derek Holland (3-2) Tuesday at 7:05 p.m.; Mat Latos (5-0) vs. Cole Hamels (4-0) Wednesday at 1:05 p.m.
At a glance: The White Sox swept a three-game series vs. Texas at U.S. Cellular Field in late April, outscoring the Rangers 13-4. Gonzalez is coming back up from Class AAA Charlotte to pitch for the Sox, and he has a shot at sticking as the No. 5 starter. Gonzalez faced the Blue Jays in Toronto on April 25 and allowed 5 runs on 11 hits in 5.1 innings. Heading into Sunday, Texas was second in the American League with 135 runs scored. The White Sox were fifth with 128. Keep an eye on rookie Nomar Mazara, the Rangers' 21-year-old right fielder. He looks like a future star. Injured catcher Alex Avila (hamstring) is likely to come off the 15-day disabled list and rejoin the Sox in Texas.
Next: New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium, Friday-Sunday
- Scot Gregor