Smith shuts down hard-hitting Chisox

CHICAGO -- The butterflies were swirling a bit in Greg Smith's stomach when he first took the mound for his major-league debut last week in Toronto.

On Monday night, his nerves were calmer at U.S. Cellular Field.

Not that you'd notice the difference. The Oakland A's left- hander keeps the same even-keeled demeanor over the course of a game no matter what the situation might be. It's served him well so far.

Smith silenced the Chicago White Sox during a 2-1 A's victory in the opener of a two-game series between two of the American League's surprise teams so far.

The White Sox entered the game leading the league in runs scored, on-base percentage and slugging percentage, and other categories. But the crowd of

20,430 was treated to a pitcher's duel between Smith and White Sox ace Mark Buehrle.

Smith didn't blink, scattering six hits over seven innings

c2008 ANG Newspapers. Cannot be used or repurposed without prior written permission.
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved.