Well Sox fans, we came up a bit short today. But, look at the positives. In spite of a tremendously slow start for the offense this season, they came through down the stretch when we needed them. They did just enough for us to win the AL Central. REMEMBER: The so-called “experts” picked us 4th in the division – just ahead of the Twins. We went as far as our pitching took us. If pitching and defense are the keys to winning – all of us as White Sox fans should be excited. There is no reason to expect that Mark Buehrle will be his usual self next year. The progress made by both Danks and Floyd this year into becoming solid #2 and #3 starters (on some teams – probably a #1 and #2) has been fantastic. Even Clayton Richard, who’s “numbers” don’t appear to be that good – is showing great promise and it would not surprise me one bit to see him as the #5 next season – and a solid #5 at that.

They say that you have to be solid up the middle – that starts behind the plate (A J isn’t going anywhere and he is SOLID). Whether Alexi winds up back at 2nd or moves to short, we are in pretty good shape.

Yes we could use a bit more speed (then again – we won the division without it). Of course it is disappointing that we couldn’t get past the first round of the playoffs – but then again – the Cubs supposedly had the best team in baseball – and they didn’t win a game in the playoffs and quite frankly – didn’t look very good at all losing.

And Sox fans, give credit where it is due. Joe Madden has done a great job with that Tampa Bay team and they flat out outplayed us. Let’s hope for a rematch next season (in the ALCS instead of the ALDS maybe?).

Don’t fret Sox fans — THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT!