Who has a better chance of returning to the World Series, the White Sox or Houston Astros?
The White Sox. Even so, they could use another right-hander in the bullpen. Although they are happy with rookie Brian Anderson’s defense in center field, general manager Ken Williams could be looking at reacquiring Aaron Rowand from the Philadelphia Phillies. The Astros (43-46) are a frustrated mess. They lost three of four at home to St. Louis in the final series before the break, missing a chance to be in first. They’re six games out in the NL Central. Like last year, the offense isn’t scoring enough. “The whole team is pressing,” says All-Star pitcher Roy Oswalt. Third baseman Morgan Ensberg, an NL MVP candidate last season, is lost and has been dropped to No. 7 in the order. He hit .145 in June and is at .200 for July. Closer Brad Lidge is also bombing and got booed last weekend at home. He has a 5.79 ERA, including 9.64 this month. What is all the hoopla about Francisco Liriano? The Minnesota rookie pitcher made his first start May 19 and reached enough innings before the break to
