"Alexei Ramirez is expected back in the White Sox lineup Saturday night after sitting out the last two games, plus Wednesday's rainout, in an effort to clear his mind.

"It has been OK, it has been good," Ramirez said through an interpreter. "I've been able to study and think about what I've been doing. I haven't been doing right when I bat. I had some time to get in the batting cage and focus on a couple of little things, but it actually has been pretty good."

Asked if he could get in an offensive groove like he did last season after a slow start, Ramirez never wavered.

"Last year I felt almost worse than I have this year," he said. "As far as knowing I can do the job, I've never lost that. This year I'm more relaxed. I feel comfortable, and confidence isn't an issue with me."

Manager Ozzie Guillen said he would talk with Ramirez, "and hopefully he understands where I'm coming from.""