CHICAGO – Mark Buehrle’s already been back to Chicago since leaving the White Sox after the 2011 season and he’s faced his former team, albeit in Toronto, so when he returns to the U.S. Cellular Field mound Saturday with the Blue Jays it will be business as usual for the left-hander.
“I think if this was the year after I left, it would be more emotional and a lot harder to come back,” Buehrle told media Friday night, adding later: “I’m sure it’ll be different. I’m going to try not to make it too different and go out there and treat it as every other game.
“But I’m sure there’s going to be some emotions.”
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Buehrle spent 12 big-league seasons with the White Sox before leaving to sign as a free agent with the Marlins, who a season later dealt him to the Blue Jays. He wasn’t scheduled to pitch during his first visit back last season, so Saturday will give fans a chance to fete him.
“If I pitch too good I might get booed walking off the mound, I don’t know,” quipped Buehrle, who recalled Frank Thomas getting cheered initially upon his return but later booed when he did some damage against the White Sox.
Buehrle said his favourite memories of Chicago were of the World Series championship in 2005 and trips to the post-season in 2000 and 2008. In coming back, he said it feels like he never left, something he wouldn’t have done if the White Sox were willing to bring him back.
“I’m not bitter,” said Buehrle. “I would have loved to spend my whole career here. I’d still be here ‘til this day, but that’s part of the game.”
As for what’s different about him since leaving, Buehrle replied: “Ten pounds heavier. Throw slower. I’m not as agile on the mound as I used to be. My body hurts. But I’m throwing the exact same pitches.”