Sox to skip Chris Sale’s Sunday start to keep him fresh for 2nd half
BY DARYL VAN SCHOUWEN dvanschouwen@suntimes.com July 3, 2012 5:46PM
Texas Rangers v Chicago White Sox
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Updated: July 3, 2012 8:33PM
Chris Sale’s next appearance after facing the Texas Rangers on Tuesday probably will be in the All-Star Game.
Sale’s scheduled turn in the rotation Sunday against the Toronto Blue Jays will be skipped as the White Sox follow through on their plan to keep him fresh through his first season as a starter.
‘‘Whether I want to see it or not, it’s going to happen,’’ Sox general manager Ken Williams said of Sale pitching for the American League on July 10 in Kansas City, Mo.
The Sox haven’t decided who will start Sunday against the Blue Jays, manager Robin Ventura said. They could make a call-up or, depending on who’s fresh with a four-day break following Sunday, use several pitchers.
Sale took a 9-2 record and 2.27 ERA into the game Tuesday against the Rangers’ deep lineup. As for starting the midsummer classic, that won’t happen if Williams can help it. Detroit Tigers right-hander Justin Verlander is a logical choice, anyway.
‘‘That’s something I don’t foresee happening,’’ Williams said of Sale starting the All-Star Game. ‘‘So on the front side and back side of [the All-Star Game], he’s going to get his rest and catch his third wind and hopefully finish strong.’’
