I am driving across western New York this morning, listening to David McCullough read 1776 on CD and learning how General Washington fortified the land around New York City.  The thought has entered my head, on this final day of the non-waiver trading season, that the American League Central (heck, all of the American League) has been fortifying itself for that great battle which is to come.  The proposed trade of Griffey Jr. to the White Sox  certainly should help the White Sox stave off both the Twins and the Tigers for the Central title giving the Sox a left-handed bat in the heart of their line-up.  Nick Swisher and Paul Konerko, both having down seasons will platoon at first.  My bet is Griffey agrees as he has friendly relations with Kenny Williams, would like to be in a pennant race, and Chicago is not the far from home.  Williams, it seems is also in the hunt for a reliever and may land Huston Street from Oakland before the day is done as well.  If so, odds shoot up of an All-Chicago World Series, though they still have to play the games.  Personally, though a Reds fan from the days I learned to speak, I have to be happy for Griffey. Its nice, even as his skills are fading, to see him coveted.  I can’t wait to hear what prospects Chicago is sending over.  Two more years, and the Reds will be the team to beat, though I will still be giving much credit to Wayne Krivsky.