Homecoming start a special night for Carroll

KANSAS CITY -- If you think there's pressure in playing in front of 100 friends and family, try a couple thousand from your hometown.

Those were the numbers for White Sox starter Scott Carroll when the Liberty, Mo., native made his homecoming start Monday night in Chicago's 7-6 win at Kansas City.

"With Liberty being close, it was cool to have everyone make it from the community and come out and support me," said Carroll, who allowed six runs in four innings. "It was just a blessing to be able to pitch out here in front of all of them."

Carroll last pitched in Kauffman Stadium during his senior year at Liberty High School in the Frank White Classic. Liberty won the game, as Carroll dominated, striking out 10 Oak Park batters.

"I remember as a high school student just walking on that field, just being like, 'Man, this is cool,' and just having that come full circle was just awesome," Carroll said.

Carroll grew up 20 minutes from Kauffman Stadium.

"I was a huge Royals fan, watching George Brett, Bo Jackson, Bret Saberhagen and all those guys," Carroll said. "There were some tough years as a Royals fan, but they were definitely fun to watch."