Monday, June 16, 2008

Brian Anderson to Pick Up Slack for Paul Konerko

Expect outfielder Brian Anderson to pick up most of the slack for the White Sox if first baseman Paul Konerko misses significant time with a rib cage injury -- a trip to the disabled list being a distinct possibility.

Anderson will be given extra playing time as outfielder Nick Swisher moves to first base until Konerko returns.

Though Konerko is listed as day-to-day for now, Manager Ozzie Guillen said during his post-game media conference Sunday that he is "not too optimistic" that Konerko can keep from missing several days, perhaps much more. Guillen was doubtful whether team's idle day on Monday would be enough to make a difference.

"Hopefully, with the day off it will be better," Guillen was quoted as saying in Monday's editions of the Chicago Sun-Times. "...You hope for the best."

Konerko felt a sharp pain near his ribs while swinging a bat before Sunday's game, with preliminary indications that it might be an oblique tear or strain. Konerko has been playing poorly all year, with his batting average mired at .215.