Not Up to the Task Baldwin Fails in Big Start

Beginning of article

Byline: Scot Gregor Daily Herald Sports Writer

BOSTON - On Thursday, the White Sox knew they were playing their most important game of the season. And they responded like a team that wants to be in the playoffs, bashing Baltimore 11-3 and cutting the Orioles' wild-card lead to a half-game.

What the Sox apparently forgot on Friday night, though, is that every game they play these final two weeks is also the biggest of the season.

Instead of pumping up the momentum they took out of Baltimore, the White Sox deflated against the Red Sox, dropping a 9-5 decision at rainy Fenway Park. The Orioles beat the Tigers and opened their wild-card lead back to 1 1/2 …