Bobby Jenks May Be Out

I have been reporting on Bobby Jenks. Finally, there is (almost) concrete news. The Chicago White Sox and Bobby Jenks may part ways this offseason.

"Honestly, I was hoping that this would not be the case, being non-tendered. I was hoping I would come back without question. Obviously, things change in a heartbeat. I'm sad that it has come to this, where I've become a free agent and I'm talking to other teams."

-WhiteSox.com

Jenks will be 30 in March and says he is in the process of talking to other teams. He has had his fair share of struggles the past few years, on the field and off. Early in the 2009 season he was dealing with kidney stones and ended up the 2010 season with an ERA of 4.44, a career worst for him. Big Bad Bobby Jenks did however aid in our taking of the World Series in '05, and for that I am very greatful. I have never seen such a young pitcher do so well considering the circumstances. Not only do well, but impress an entire city, maybe even the world. I remember the victory parade downtown, I was standing up on a concrete barrier to get a better look, Bobby Jenks was on top of one of the busses, we caught a glimpse of eachother and pointed in celebration. I think he really appreciated the fan's support. He seems to be very modest during these times of uincertainty; I would like to see him stay but if it's in the best interest for the White Sox to have a new closer, so be it.

New Closer for 2011?

Bobby Jenks may be on his way out of the White Sox organization. If you remember, last year was also supposed to be Jenks' last year with the White Sox. It's not looking too good for Jenks; this is the fourth year his save totals have dropped not to mention his attitude over the past 5 years has drastically changed. I would like to keep him as a closer, he undeniably helped us attain the coveted World Series Championship and '08 Division Championship, but as I mentioned his attitude has clearly changed and his numbers are dropping. I said last year to give him another chance, I think that's it.

Konerko & Putz Deny Arbitration

White Sox team leader Paul Konerko and pitcher J.J. Putz have declined salary arbitration.

What does this mean?

Well, Putz has the option to go to another team, and if he does, the White Sox will get a higher draft pick for the 2011 season. That's good, I'd like to see Putz stay, but there has to be some young pitchers out there who are hungry and willing to play ball. Putz did set a White Sox record by pitching for 27 straight scoreless appearances this year, pretty noteworthy!

As for Konerko, he has maybe 5 years left in the major leagues. I would really like to see him finish his career in a White Sox uniform. The more and more buzz about this makes me think that Paul Konerko will not be returning. If he doesn't, at least the White Sox will get the receiving team's 1st round draft pick.

Vote for Mark Buehrle!

The 2010 This Year in Baseball Awards are underway. Vote for Mark Buehrle! He deserves it not only for being one of the best pitchers in the AL (and even the MLB), but simple for he amazing play! I want to see his play as the top play for 2010. Let's do it, go Sox!

A.J. Pierzynski Declined Salary Arbitration

The Chicago White Sox have declined salary arbitration to their starting catcher, A.J. Pierzynski. Interestingly, they did offer arbitration for Konerko and Putz. A.J. seemed hopeful about coming to an understanding with the management and staying with the White Sox. I hope they do. If not, he may be headed to Texas. The Rangers' catcher Molina was also declined salary arbitration after hinting at retirement. The Rangers were looking to sign Pierzynski last May, they now might have the chance. Another possible new home for Pierzynski would be Boston. The Red Sox lost another White Sox possible replacement for Pierzynski, Victor Martinez, to Detroit earlier. Now that Martinez is out of the picture it looks like the White Sox will either sign A.J. or go with Molina, assuming Molina wants to.

White Sox Offer Arbitration to Konerko & Putz

The Chicago White Sox have offered both Paul Konerko and J.J. Putz salary arbitraion before Tuesday's deadline. This is good news for White Sox fans hoping to keep Konerko. I assume Konerko will be offered a hefty salary increase and J.J.'s will undoubtedly increase as well. Both are well deserved, Konerko more so just because he is the senior member of the team and a leader. Each player has the option to decline and consider other offers before November 30th. Hopefully that date comes sooner rather than later. Apparently the Arizona Diamondbacks have expressed interest in Konerko. It would be a shame to see his possibly last season end with another team.

The White Sox have declined arbitration to two players, A.J. Pierzynski and Manny Ramirez. A.J. needs to stay with the Sox, Manny on the other hand...good riddance!

Paul Konerko Finished 5th in AL MVP

White Sox first baseman Paul Konerko apparently finished fifth in the AL MVP race this year. Unfortunately the award went to the Texas Rangers' outfielder Josh Hamilton, I'm sure it was well deserved. I didn't really follow Texas baseball this year.

Konerko was the only White Sox player to be seen on the ballot this year, he was on 27 out of the 28; he received four fourth place votes. Not bad I guess. I thought it would be a lot closer than that considering Konerko's 39 home runs and 111 batted in. Interestingly, Jim Thome received two tenth place votes. Maybe next year.