The Chicago White Sox scored eight runs last night as they defeated the Rangers 8-2. Jim Thome homered late in the game, his 22nd of the year, but only his second in his last 13 games. Thome was brought in to transform the offense, and indeed that's happened. Compare the White Sox through 66 games in 2005 and 2006:

In 2005 they ranked 5th in runs per game; in 2006 they've moved up to fourth. Thome's brought fewer outs and more power to the middle of the lineup, producing more offense from the DH slot and at the same time giving everyone else more chances to produce as well.

Another difference is that the White Sox played a many fewer one-run games this season. Through 66 contests in 2005, the pale hose were 19-8 in one run games. This season they're just 11-8. More runs means less opportunities to play close games. That's a good thing.