Dodgers, White Sox Address Contention

Postseason contention is a paradox. Three contest deficits offer potential. Five contest deficits inspire nervousness. Six-plus contest deficits require transition. Divisional position is irrelevant. Wild Card position is irrelevant. Deficits dictate abandonment, acquisitions, and attitude.

On Monday, the Arizona Diamondbacks, Chicago White Sox, and Los Angeles Dodgers concocted a swap. The Dodgers received Jim Thome and Jon Garland. The Diamondbacks and White Sox received minor leaguers.

According to Dodgers General Manager Ned Colletti, Thome’s presence trumps performance. “We're not bringing him over here to play first base,” said Colletti. “We're bringing him here to come off the bench and be a great influence in the clubhouse. He's one of the true great guys in the game. In fact, the night before the deadline he called me. ... He just said: 'I just want to be honest with you. I'd love to come. I want to help you guys any way I can. But playing first base is not something I'm going to be able to do -- maybe in an emergency situation, perhaps.”

Currently, the Dodgers are 78-54. The White Sox are 64-68. In the National League West, the Dodgers lead the Colorado Rockies and San Francisco Giants. In the American League Central, the White Sox trail the Detroit Tigers. Los Angeles’ advantage is five and one-half contests. Chicago’s deficit is six contests.

During his career, Thome has batted .278 with 564 home runs and 1,562 runs batted in. This season, he has hammered .249 with 23 home runs and 74 runs batted in. “I think it's made us stronger,” said Dodgers Manager Joe Torre. “We have a threat off the bench now, and in Garland we certainly have someone who knows how to pitch.”

During his career, Garland has amassed 114-100 record. He has posted a 4.45 earned run average. This season, he has logged an 8-11 record. “He's somebody we had interest in this past winter and who we've watched for a while and have seen in our division,” said Colletti. “He's pitched in the postseason, he's been on a team that's won the World Series. When you get to the month of August and you start looking for additional help and can add a veteran starter who can give you innings and is a winning-type player, you go for it.”

Since Torre’s arrival, the Dodgers have accrued a 166-136 record. Torre has inspired a championship mentality. The Dodgers have provided championship components.