White Sox need strong outing from Danks

CHICAGO – White Sox starter John Danks hasn't pitched like a No. 1 ace this season.

He has an opportunity to change that tonight against a dangerous Detroit Tigers lineup. Danks (2-4, 5.89 ERA) has struggled at home this season, posting an 0-3 record and 7.32 ERA in three starts. A struggling Sox offense, which features six players in its starting lineup hitting .257 or lower, faces lefty Drew Smyly. The Sox's .196 batting average against left-handed pitchers is the lowest mark in the majors.

The Sox have lost five or their last six series and have not won a home series since April 13-15 versus Detroit.

Tigers starting lineup

1. Austin Jackson, CF
2. Andy Dirks, LF
3. Miguel Cabrera, 3B
4. Prince Fielder, 1B
5. Delmon Young, DH
6. Ryan Rayburn, 2B
7. Brennan Boesch, RF
8. Jhonny Peralta, SS
9. Gerald Laird, C

White Sox starting lineup

1. Alejandro De Aza, CF
2. Gordon Beckham, 2B
3. Adam Dunn, DH
4. Paul Konerko, 1B
5. Alex Rios, RF
6. A.J. Pierzynski, C
7. Alexei Ramirez, SS
8. Dayan Viciedo, LF
9. Brent Morel, 3B

-- Meghan Montemurro