May 12--Melky Cabrera had two hits and scored two runs Wednesday against the Rangers at Globe Life Park, another example of why manager Robin Ventura this week called him "one of our most consistent guys in the lineup."
That has been big for the Sox's No. 5 hitter after an inconsistent start last year, his first of a three-year, $42 million contract.
"Last year was an odd one with him (because) he didn't get off to a good start at all right-handed," Ventura said. "You get a switch-hitter who can put it in play like he can and have the type of at-bats he has, it can only make your lineup better. It's a deeper lineup."
Cabrera is hitting .308 with five doubles, a triple, two homers and a .379 on-base percentage that ranks second on the Sox behind only leadoff man Adam Eaton. Entering Wednesday, he was hitting .273 with three extra-base hits against left-handed pitchers this year after finishing last year batting .240 against them.
"I haven't changed anything in my approach," Cabrera said through a team interpreter. "I've just been working hard, and that's basically my key. I'm trying to see the ball, see a good pitch to hit and put the bat on the ball."
Ventura said he thinks Cabrera has become more comfortable having a voice in the clubhouse with better results. Cabrera has taken over the leadership of postgame victory celebrations, including naming the players or pitchers of the game to group applause.
"Everything is related to our chemistry," Cabrera said. "There are a lot of veteran players mixed with young players, and everybody is trying to win something every day."
Rocky Rodon: Carlos Rodon's ERA jumped to 4.99 after he allowed the Rangers six earned runs Tuesday, and he hasn't recorded a victory since April 13. But Ventura said he thought the rough outing Tuesday had more to do with pitching around a rain delay of 1 hour, 18 minutes.
"They have some quality hitters that I think are more the reason than anything," Ventura said. "He'll get back on track and have a nice run similar to last year."
Weekend off: Dan Plesac will take the place of Steve Stone in the Sox TV booth over the weekend, joining Ken "Hawk" Harrelson for the three-game series against the Yankees.
