Here's another line for Super Sam Fuld's growing résumé: American League batting leader.
Fuld's 4-for-4 night in the Tampa Bay Rays' 5-0 victory Monday against the Chicago White Sox pushed his average to .396, which is now tops in the league.
Maicer Izturis of the Los Angeles Angels is second at .391.
Fuld has hit safely in eight of his past nine games, batting .417 during that span.
Through April 18, his batting average is the second highest in team history, behind only Fred McGriff's .400 in 1998.
Fuld is batting .481 at home and .421 when leading off an inning. He lead off the first, fifth and seventh innings Monday with hits.
Fuld was acquired from the Chicago Cubs in the January trade for pitcher Matt Garza.
"He's good," White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen said. "You see? Venezuela (winter ball) helps people. You play in Venezuela, and you come out good. This kid was hitting .090 in Chicago, and the next time I look up at the scoreboard, he's hitting .390. A guy like that, a leadoff hitter to get your team going, he's swinging the bat very well right now. I think he's very comfortable at the plate."
Fuld agreed and added playing every day has played a big role in his success.
"I feel good (at the plate), but I wouldn't say anything crazy," he said. "I'm just relaxed and feeling confident. It's not like I feel I'm going to get a hit every time. I'm trying to be consistent and maintain that good, relaxed feeling."
Fuld, who has also gained a reputation for diving outfield catches, has developed a thriving popularity on Twitter. The team has even announced it added a Sam Fuld Superhero Cape giveaway this season.
The Rays and White Sox meet again tonight at Tropicana Field. First pitch is at 6:40. John Danks (0-1) will start for Chicago against Tampa Bay's James Shields (0-1).
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