- We’ve seen plenty of stops and starts, but the time has finally come. Jake Peavyis moments away from making his White Sox debut against the Royals. Too bad the start doesn’t mean anything, as the White Sox have lost three in a row, unable to take advantage of the Tigers’ recent struggles. Of course, the White Sox acquired Peavy from the Padres in exchange for a boatload of prospects at the deadline. While general manager Ken Williams made quite a splash with the trade, this isn’t a rental. The White Sox owe Peavy $52 million through 2012.
- There’s a distinct possibility that Chad Billingsley just isn’t very good. Either that, or he is hiding an injury. Billingsley pitched in relief for the first time this season on Friday night against the Giants andthe results weren’t very encouraging. He allowed two runs on four hits, including a home run, while walking two and failing to strike out a batter. Joe Torre came with the hook after he loaded the bases. It looks like Billingsley is still on track to start against the Nationals next Wednesday, but his recent collapse is nothing short of alarming. He is 3-6 with a 5.49 ERA, 1.58 WHIP and .302 BAA in 12 appearances (11 starts) since the All-Star break.
- The Athletics recalled a few reinforcements on Saturday, including outfielder Travis Buck,but top-prospect Chris Carter was not one of them. Nope, it looks like the Athletics will go with Daric Barton at first base the rest of the way. Carter has surprised by hitting .337/.435/.576 with 24 HR and 101 RBI for Double-A Midland this season. Acquired from Arizona in the Dan Haren trade, Carter was ranked as the No. 6 prospect in the Athletics organization by Baseball America. Don’t be surprised to see him jump that list after his strong showing in 2009.