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1 i i t 1 i i 1 : - 1 1 i : ; : i Minoso, in Worst Slump, Apologizes White Sox Outfielder Cant Understand Why I No Hit; Says Fans Very Good to Him By MILTON RICHMAN United Press Sports Writer NEW YORK, N. Y., June 18. Minnie Minoso of the White Sox, deep in the throes of his worst slump ever, made a public apology today because he feels "I no give fans their moneys worth this year." The hustling Chicago left-fielder, whose batting average has tailed off to .230 following last years brilliant .320, insists he has let down both the fans and White Sox. "People pay to see me hit and when I no hit, they got right to say something," Minoso declared. "But they dont . . . they all very good to me . . . I apologize to them, though, because I so- bad at plate this year." Despite Minosos slump, manager Marty Marion claims the colorful Cuban is still a vital cog in the White Sox machine because of his tremendous competitive spirit. Minnie doesnt see it that way, however. "If I be hitting good, like I should, you know, wed win four, five more games and be in first place," he declared, gritting his teeth. Tries to Keep Chin Up "All the time every day, I try to keep chin up. People ask me how I feel and I say, hokay. " Minoso suddenly looked at his shoes and seemed absorbed in deep thought. "Yes," he said, "I smile and make believe I happy on outside, but am sad inside . . . sometime I feel so bad I no eat after game." The 30-year-old outfielder, whose skull was fractured when Bob Grim of the Yankees hit him with a pitch May 18, spread his hands in a gesture of helplessness as he talked in front of his locker. "I cannot understand why I no hit," he sighed. .T feel strong ... I no play around after games ... I swing same way as before", but ball all the time go to shortstop or second baseman. I dont know why, honest to God." Since coming out of the hospital and returning to the White Sox. two and a half weeks ago, Minoso said he has collected only four hits. He realizes the seriousness of the injury he suffered and knows, too, the risk he runs of being hit again. "Dont matter to me if I get hit 100 times," he emphasized. "Even if I know I gonna die out there, I still want to play."
