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White Sox looking to bounce back against Rangers

Jul 21, 2008 - 1:31 PM Texas (51-48) at Chicago (55-42) 8:11 p.m. EDT

CHICAGO (Ticker) -- The Chicago White Sox missed an opportunity to expand their lead atop the American League Central Division.

The White Sox will try to bounce back after a dismal series when they host the Texas Rangers for a three-game set beginning on Monday.

Chicago currently owns a one-half game lead over the Minnesota Twins in the Central division after suffering a pair of losses during a three-game set against the lowly Kansas City Royals, who own the third worst record in the AL.

"We played terrible," White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen said. "Kansas City showed up to kick our butts and they did."

The Rangers, who are the top scoring team in the majors with 541 runs this season, are also looking to rebound after scoring just three times in dropping two of three games to the Twins over the weekend.

Texas looks to get back on track against White Sox starter Javier Vazquez (7-7, 4.61 ERA), who is well rested after his last start came on July 9. Vazquez allowed six runs and 11 hits in 5 2/3 innings during that outing, enduring the loss in a 7-6 setback to the Royals.

Vazquez will be countered by rookie Eric Hurley (1-1, 3.57), who is expected to be activated from the 15-day disabled list in time to start Monday's contest.

Hurley was placed on the DL July 8 due to a strained left hamstring just after he registered his first win in the majors. The 22-year-old righthander allowed one run and five hits in 5 2/3 innings during a 5-1 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies on June 29.