White Sox players would like to see Peavy stay

CHICAGO -- Despite Jake Peavy becoming a prime trade target before the July 31 non-waiver Trade Deadline, with a number of scouts watching his six solid innings in Saturday's 10-6 victory, manager Robin Ventura made his feelings crystal clear postgame that he hopes Peavy remains in Chicago.

Fellow members of the rotation echo Ventura's sentiments, knowing that Peavy has as much value as part of the team as he does as a chip to be dealt.

"Just having his leadership, having his voice, he's a competitor," said White Sox All-Star hurler Chris Sale of Peavy. "That's the one thing we have all learned more than anything from him, that no matter if it's going good or bad, you have to go out and compete.

"The prime example was [Saturday] night. He gives up two earned runs, four total. We were down 4-0 in the third and he kept fighting. He kept them right there and we ended up winning the game. It just shows what kind of person he is and he practices what he preaches."

Dylan Axelrod, who was recently moved to the bullpen after making 18 starts this season, goes back to the Padres' days together with Peavy. Axelrod talked about Peavy's competitiveness and the way he prepares for every start as valuable skills for younger pitchers to follow.

"His scouting reports of the other team. His ideas about pitching, like he'll share his insights about just how to pitch on the bench sitting next to him," Axelrod said. "He's definitely willing to talk to you and help you out.

"For me, personally he's been awesome. He's always been open to me and helped me out anyway he can. He's always in my ear, saying something that's constructive to help me out."