CLEVELAND -- The Chicago White Sox watched a once-promising chance at postseason play end just after posting a convincing shutout victory on Monday evening.

Although Chicago defeated the Indians 11-0 on a seven-inning, one-hit gem by rookie Hector Santiago, the Detroit Tigers beat the Royals in Kansas City to clinch the American League Central title.

“We were on the same page as a team and as a staff all year long,” Alex Rios said. “It did not work out the way we wanted it to, but I can say the effort was always there for this team.”

Santiago will most likely get a chance to start next season with the likely departure of some veteran pitchers.

“Everything was working for me,” Santiago said. “I had all five pitches working from the first inning on. That was what tonight was all about -- let them know that I can get it done and be in the starting rotation next year.”

The White Sox picked a bad time to go through their worst slump of the season. They have lost 10 of their last 13 games, which includes Monday’s victory.

“It always is frustrating,” A.J. Pierzynski said. “I told the guys they should hold their head up high at the end of the season because nobody thought we would do anything this year. To be in it until Oct. 1 and have a chance (was great). At the end of the day we gave everything we could, it just did not work out.”

Chicago was in first place for 117 games during the 2012 season, including every day from July 24 through Sept. 25, before going 3-10 after taking a three-game lead in the division. Ventura, though disappointed with the final result, was proud of his players and organization.

“It is disappointing because you wish you had done better,” said the rookie manager. “I am not disappointed in these guys. You end up where you are supposed to end up. The effort was there -- we just came up short.”