Podsednik confident in Pierre

Scott Podsednik got a warm welcome in his return to U.S. Cellular Field on Monday night.

Off to a great start (.326 batting average through Sunday) with his new team - the Kansas City Royals - Podsednik became popular with White Sox fans for the huge role he played on the 2005 World Series championship team.

And the 34-year-old outfielder further endeared himself last season when he batted .304 after being released by the Colorado Rockies at the end of spring training and joining the Sox on May 1.

"It's fun to come back and see the ballpark," Podsednik said.

It hasn't been much fun so far for Juan Pierre, who was acquired in a Dec. 15 trade with the Los Angeles Dodgers to replace Podsednik in the leadoff spot.

Pierre, de- moted from the top of the order the past three games and showered with boos most of the season, hit first again for the White Sox on Monday despite his .202 average.

Podsednik understands slow starts, as well as the pressures that come with playing in Chicago.

"There are more expectations put on the club, on the individuals here in Chicago," Podsednik said. "It's not as laid-back and easygoing as some smaller markets. That's what you get when you come here and compete.

"Juan is a talented player, and he's going to get it going. He's done it for a long time."

Podsednik wanted to come back to the White Sox this season, but the feeling wasn't entirely mutual. That's why he signed a one-year, $1.65 million contract with the Royals.

"It was no secret I wanted to come back here," Podsednik said. "It didn't work out. That's the way things go.

"I don't want to get into the details of all that went on, but the bottom line was K.C. was most aggressive at the start of free agency.

"They made me feel wanted. They communicated with me, and we were able to get a deal done."