posted on Sunday, July 09, 2006 2:19 AM by Jim

Midseason Review: Paul Konerko

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Something nice:  Any worries that Konerko might put more pressure on himself due to the captaincy and the big contract have been put aside, as he's had the most consistent first half of his career. 

Must improve:  Athleticism?  I'm not sure what else to call it.  He always looks like he's a step slow around first, and it's painful to watch him run.  I know this is asking for too much, but what else can you ask for?

Three best games

April 15
Konerko hits a pair of two-run homers, driving in the only four runs as the Sox beat the Blue Jays 4-2.

May 26
For the second time, Konerko hits two solo homers as he looks like the only offensive player who cares during two otherwise discouraging losses.

June 13
After Kameron Loe frustrated the Sox with his nothing stuff for 11 combined innings over two starts, Konerko breaks the game open in the sixth inning with a three-run homer that provides the winning margin.

Three worst games

April 5
With the bases loaded, Konerko grounds into an inning-ending double play.  Later on, Konerko strikes out with runners on first and second with no outs.  The Sox don't score, and end up losing by one run to the Indians. 

June 8
Jon Garland, already having a rough night thanks to Rob Mackowiak, isn't helped out when Konerko takes a second to stare at the ump, and Omar Infante comes around to score from second on an infield hit.

July 8
Konerko fouls out with the bases loaded and facing a guy who has trouble locating the strike zone, Craig Hansen, capping off a rough stretch with runners on.

Grades

Bat: A-
He's faltered in the clutch a few times, and he's always a threat for a double play, but after he signed that gargantuan contract in the offseason, I'm perfectly pleased to see him producing this much. 

Running:  C
Paulie.....is......slow, and there's always the foreboding sense of doom when he's trying to score from second on a single. 

Fielding:  C+
He's showed some less-than-savory range, but he's made some nice throws to start some 3-6-1 double plays. 

Awards

Player of the Weak, July 2-9
Gold Glove, June 25-July 1
Gold Glove, June 18-24
Player of the Week, June 11-17
Player of the Week, April 23-29
Player of the Week, April 9-15

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