Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
With a 3.70 ERA in his first four major league starts, Chicago White Sox rookie hurler Andre Rienzo has impressed since making his debut on July 30 in Cleveland. Despite having three quality outings, however, Rienzo is still searching for his first victory.
The 25-year-old right-hander will try to tackle that feat tonight as the White Sox battle the Kansas City Royals in game two of a three-game set. Winners of four straight, Chicago is looking to play the role of spoilers as the 2013 season begins to come to a close.
Related: Chicago White Sox Spoiling Kansas City Royals Chances with Win Streak
The Royals, on the other hand, have lost six of their last eight, and now find themselves 6.5 games out of a playoff berth.
Although the White Sox are well out of playoff contention, Rienzo’s success for the remainder of the season will have a direct impact on whether or not he opens Spring Training in the South Siders’ starting rotation. Another solid performance in Kansas City this evening would be a big step in his chances of making the White Sox’ 2014 Opening Day roster.
Opposing Rienzo will be Royals’ right-hander Jeremy Guthrie. In 25 starts this year, Guthrie is 12-9 with a 4.15 ERA. He’s enjoyed pitching at Kauffman Stadium in 2013, notching eight wins in 12 outings. With Kansas City trying to make the postseason for the first time since 1985, Guthrie will look to shut down Chicago’s offense and get the Royals back on track.
Matt Malecha is a Chicago White Sox writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @MattMalecha and add him to your network on Google
