2012 White Sox Forecast: Alexei Ramirez

The Cuban Missile is coming off of a season that was on par with his career averages. The Southside shortstop hit .269 in 158 games with an on-base percentage of .328. Ramirez hit 15 home runs and drove in 70 in 614 at-bats – the most of his career so far. Unlike Gordon Beckham, Alexei is able to back up his dazzling defense with offensive production.

Alexei has fit nicely into the White Sox scheme during his first four years in the big leagues. He’s been one of the most consistent performers and, as I mentioned, his defense is gold glove caliber. Maybe he’ll even win one some day. All Alexei needs to do is continue his success into 2012 and the Sox should be fine in that department.

I wish there was more to say about our underrated shortstop but he’s just too good to go on about. You know what you’re going to get out Alexei Ramirez both offensively and defensively and that’s the kind of security that is both good to have and hard to find.