KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- With the Oakland A's defeating the Detroit Tigers on Thursday, the White Sox went into their game against the Royals on Thursday night with a chance to build their lead to three games.

Manager Robin Ventura made a handful of changes in his lineup, giving first baseman Paul Konerko a day off because of a stiff back and inserting Dan Johnson at designated hitter. He also moved third baseman Kevin Youkilis to the sixth spot in the order against right-hander Jeremy Guthrie, who has not allowed an earned run against the Sox in 23 2/3 innings.

Ventura said he expects Konerko to play Friday with the Sox open a three-game series in Anaheim against the Angels.

The batting order

De Aza LF
Wise CF
Dunn 1B
Rios RF
Pierzynski C
Youkilis 3B
Johnson DH
Ramirez SS
Beckham 2B

Liriano P.