Konerko, Dunn making strides in middle of order

CHICAGO -- While Paul Konerko and Adam Dunn aren't quite hitting full stride, manager Robin Ventura sees moves in the right direction from his accomplished middle-of-the-order sluggers.

"It's getting better," Ventura said. "Again, when you score some runs and it happens the way it's happened the last couple of days, you start seeing the at-bats, just the way the at-bats are, as far as hitting the ball the other way and the sound and the contact. It just looks better."

Ventura knows that Konerko and Dunn take it personally when their ability to physically lead the team on the field is concerned. He also understands that this season has been filled with various struggles and hasn't changed their attitude from past, more successful first halves.

"They've always done that. They take a lot of pride in what they do, and if it's not going right they take it personal," Ventura said. "I don't think it's any different than it's been in the past.

"Results-wise, they're guys who take pride and responsibility, but it's not just them. They're not the only ones. It's getting better and hopefully it only improves."