Shields sharp again in Chicago White Sox's win

James Shields used to be both.

He was an effective major-league starting pitcher and a positive clubhouse presence.

The 36-year-old veteran lost the first part of that tag when he joined the Chicago White Sox in a trade from the San Diego Padres on June 4, 2016, and he wasn't much better last season while going 5-7 with a 5.23 ERA.

Through it all, Shields was always a standout teammate, and he embraced his role in the Sox's rebuild.

This year, the right-hander is back to being a capable starter.

"He's a competitive individual," manager Rick Renteria said. "He knew he had to make adjustments, and he did. He's been very, very effective."

In Wednesday night's 6-1 win over the Minnesota Twins at Guaranteed Rate Field, Shields pitched 7 shutout innings and scattered 4 hits. He has pitched 6 or more innings in 12 of his last 13 starts.

"Just being consistent," Shields said. "My body feels really good this year. This is kind of what I've done my whole career."

Last year the durable Shields went on the disabled list for the first time in his career with a lat strain. He changed his delivery late in the season, dropping down instead of throwing over the top.

He no longer overpowers hitters, but Shields (3-9) has figured out a way to get the job done to the point of being an attractive trade candidate.

"To me, the wins and losses for him are irrelevant," Renteria said. "It's the way he's been performing that's important. I think he's been executing and giving us innings and helping us win ballgames. As long as he continues doing what he's doing, who knows how long he'll continue to pitch?

"He's certainly done enough to open a lot of people's eyes into how consistent he's been over this season. He's a pretty impressive guy."

Every starter in the White Sox's lineup but third baseman Yolmer Sanchez had at least 1 hit, and Jose Abreu and Avisail Garcia hit solo home runs. Making his first start of the season in center field, Charlie Tilson was 2-for-3 with 1 RBI, raising his batting average to .294.

Back in time:

Before they play the Kansas City Royals on July 14 at Guaranteed Rate Field, the White Sox will celebrate the 25th anniversary of their 1993 AL West championship team.

Frank Thomas, Bo Jackson, Jack McDowell, Tim Raines, Ozzie Guillen and Wilson Alvarez are among the players that will participate in the festivities.

Manager Gene Lamont and most of his coaching staff from 1993, including Walt Hriniak and Terry Bevington, also are scheduled to attend.