SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- The White Sox know too well how Minnesota has the ability to retool after losing players to free agency or injury.
So they weren't leaping for joy after learning that Twins All-Star closer Joe Nathan is likely out for the year because of a ligament tear in his right elbow.
"The Twins, as you know, seemingly more than any team, when people go down, whether it's players or pitchers, they have other guys step in," first baseman Paul Konerko said. "They never miss a beat. It probably will be the same with that. There's probably someone that nobody is even thinking about that will be lights out for them because some way or another, they always figure it out.
Hpefully, Joe gets done what he needs to get down, and he's back out there. He's probably one of the most underrated closers over the past few years that no one talks about."
"Hopefully, Joe gets done what he needs to get down, and he's back out there. He's probably one of the most underrated closers over the past few years that no one talks about."
Konerko is 2-for-14 lifetime against Nathan, but hit a game-tying home run against him in his final at-bat at the Metrodome on Sept. 2.
"They probably sent him for tests after I hit the home
run," Konerko quipped.
"First, he's a very good guy. You don't want to see that. Obviously, the story will be that it's good for the rest of the teams, but I got a hard time making comments in that light when you're talking about that guy's career and life. He's also a pretty good guy."
Mark Teahen, who is 2-for-15 against Nathan, said, ''I'll be anxious to see what they do. But a guy like Nathan can hugely impact their bullpen.
"He's not an easy at-bat because even if one guy gets on, he doesn't walk anybody."
Teahen said he's played on Kansas City teams that have lost their closer for long periods because of injuries but knew that the Twins have been equipped to sustain injuries.
"It gives you a chance late in games, but I'm sure it knocks the confidence a bit when you don't have a guy that strong at the end of the game," Teahen said.Manager Ozzie Guillen reminded reporters that the Sox lost Bobby Jenks for periods last year.
"If (Jon) Rauch is their closer, I'll take my chances," Guillen said. "Nothing against Rauch, but Nathan is that good."
Register with Chicago Tribune and receive Bears, Bulls, and Blackhawks newsletters for free. 
When sports news breaks, be the first to know. (To get alerts on a mobile device, text CHISPORTS to 31286.). 
Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee! Great news! IN YOUR FACE MINNESOTA! That combined with the Twins having to play outside like men means the Sox are a lock to win the AL Central crown this year!
Now the White Sox will finish only 54 games behind the Twins. I have no life other than talking to my different aliases like KW, etc.
Gloating?
Teams below 500 don't gloat, no matter what happens.