Konerko's spot in final Opening Day lineup uncertain

GLENDALE, Ariz. -- For the past 15 seasons, Paul Konerko has been in the White Sox Opening Day starting lineup. The last 13 have come at first base.

But even with Monday's contest against the Twins serving as the final Opening Day of his career, coming in front of the home faithful at U.S. Cellular Field, Konerko doesn't worry about getting the starting nod.

In fact, his comments stick to the spirit of how his part-time playing role has been developed.

"No, I shouldn't be, I don't think. I think it's a right-hander," said Konerko, referencing Ricky Nolasco making the start for the Twins. "I wouldn't think I would. It doesn't matter."

It "doesn't matter," as in Konerko never has been about those individual accolades.

Manager Robin Ventura said Konerko getting that final Opening Day start is a "possibility" and "being thought about." It's more than likely Konerko would take Adam Dunn's designated hitter's spot, with Jose Abreu at first base, if he received such an honor.

Dunn really hadn't thought about this particular situation until it was brought up to him Tuesday. He understands how both sides of the decision make sense.

"Obviously, he deserves to be," Dunn said. "Coming in, if he didn't know what kind of the situation was, I think it would be a bigger deal. Coming in he realizes what the situation is, but I would like to see him out there. Somehow, someway he probably will be at some point.

"I would sit. That's the thing, too. I hadn't thought about it, but if that situation came up, I would definitely have no problem doing it. He deserves it."