Thome Powers White Sox Past Orioles 3-1

Looks like a one-game suspension was just what Jim Thome needed to put some life back into his bat. Thome broke a prolonged power drought with a three-run homer and a double, leading the Chicago White Sox past the skidding Baltimore Orioles 3-1. Jose Contreras (1-1) pitched seven innings of four-hit ball for the White Sox, who have won nine of 12.

He struck out six, walked none and lowered his ERA from 6.17 to 4.34. Scott Linebrink worked the eighth and Bobby Jenks got three straight outs for his sixth save. Thome was forced to sit Tuesday after being suspended for inappropriate actions during an April 11 game against Detroit. He returned to lineup against the Orioles with a .156 batting average.