Individual Statistical leaders for the White Sox in 2016.
By Brian Draus
With the season right around the corner, I thought it would be a good idea to write a 2016 White Sox individual predictions article. In this article, I will go through many of the key statistical predictions for the Sox this upcoming season. Here we go:
Team Batting leader:
Jose Abreu: (.314)
I think that Abreu is far away the best offensive player on the White Sox. He will hit for both average and power in 2016, mostly due to the fact that he has protection in Todd Frazier this season.
Home Run leader:
Jose Abreu: (41)
Abreu had an outstanding first two seasons on the south side, but I think this could be the first time he actually challenges for an MVP award. He did that with virtually no protection, making it difficult to get pitches to drive out of the park.
RBI leader:
Jose Abreu: (118)
Once again, I have Abreu leading the team in an offensive category. Abreu could have more men to drive in with a better lineup around him altogether, making his RBI count escalate.
Stolen Base leader:
Austin Jackson: (21)
I don’t personally think that there will be an individual player with a significant number of stolen bases for the entire season. However, I think that Adam Eaton, Jimmy Rollins, not to mention potentially a couple of others could potentially reach double digits in stolen bases. The speed may not translate into stolen bases, however it should be improved when going from first to third.
Offensive breakout player:
I think that Garcia will finally hit the way he is capable of, which means he will hit for a solid average along with 20+ home run power. He could be a big key to the offense, because if he plays up to his potential, the Sox offense will be good.
Breakout pitcher:
Rodon is among the most talented pitchers in the game, as he was able to be a middle of the rotation starter last season just on talent. With much improved control and command, Rodon might just end up being one of the best pitchers in the game not only in talent, but production in 2016.
ERA leader (bullpen not included):
Chris Sale: (2.31)
I think that Sale is arguably the best left-handed starter in all of baseball. He is tough to make contact against, and is a legit ace with a team friendly contract that any team would love to have.
Wins leader:
Chris Sale: (17)
With an improved offense (not to mention defense) Sale might end up matching his win total from 2012. Sale is easily the best pitcher on the Sox staff, and has a shot at the Cy Young if he puts up numbers such as these.
Saves leader:
David Robertson: (40)
Robertson had a good season in 2015, and has a chance to better in in 2016. Assuming he still has it, there is a good chance that he will have more save opportunities in 2016. Given Robertson is a reliever, and that means his statistics from year to year have a bit of volatility.
All in all, this is all in good fun. I doubt I will be right on some of these predictions when it comes to the exact numbers, but quite possibly who the player is. Keep in mind that players have surprising seasons, not to mention some key players disappoint. With April 4th right around the corner, you won’t have to wait long for the season to unfold. Enjoy the 2016 season, Sox fans (hopefully).
Source