Oakland manager Tony La Russa, asked to comment on speculation he could wind up in Chicago next year, danced around the question Friday.
“They’re two different situations,” La Russa said. “The Chicago situation and the A’s situation. We’ve agreed when my contract is the most important thing, we’ll talk about it.
“My surprise is Chicago, because Gene (Lamont) has done a really solid job. He won last year, and he’s winning this year. Usually you get credit for winning.”
A’s GM Sandy Alderson said Friday he has broached the subject of a contract extension for La Russa, “but Tony chose to focus on the team for now.”
This is better: After 49 games, the Sox were batting 26 points higher than they were after the same number of games last year. Their earned-run average was .24 lower.
Frank Thomas’ batting average was up 95 points, and his runs scored were up 60-27. Julio Franco’s RBIs were up 54-26. As a team, the Sox were four games better (30-19 to 26-23) than a year ago.
Tough choices: Craig Grebeck was back in the Sox clubhouse Friday but wasn’t allowed to do much more than walk on his lft ankle. He won’t be back soon-nor will Joe Hall or Dan Pasqua-but when it happens, the Sox will have some tough decisions.
“I don’t think it would take a genius to know Olmedo Saenz is going to go back,” Lamont said. Norberto Martin (.407 before Friday) and Bob Zupcic (.269, plus versatility) could present problems. “Those are good problems to have,” Lamont said.
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