Do you think Jim Thome will lead the league in home runs this season?
If not, why? — Trinian, Chicago The big designated hitter seems poised for another tremendous season, after his Comeback Player of the Year effort in 2006. Thome showed up in Tucson last Friday, after another dedicated offseason of conditioning and preparation, even though position players don’t report until this Thursday. He was on pace to lead the Majors in long balls during much of the early stages of the 2006 season, before nagging groin injuries, in particular, slowed him down during the season half. I don’t believe Thome will win the 2007 AL home run title, as I’m going to stick with the returning favorite from last year in Boston’s David Ortiz. Then again, Thome’s goal isn’t to be the league’s top home run hitter. If Thome launches 35 over the fences and the White Sox make the playoffs while holding a viable shot to win the World Series, then his job has been accomplished. Of course, the number 28 holds greater importance for Thome than the AL title, as that total would give hi
