Chicago White Sox off to .500 start

Apr 3, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; Minnesota Twins shortstop Eduardo Escobar (5) is caught in a rundown by Chicago White Sox first baseman Jose Abreu (79) during the third inning at U.S Cellular Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

If the season ended today, the White Sox would be .500, a vast improvement over the 2013 season. Obviously, it’s way too early to discuss wins and losses, as the White Sox season is only four games old, but things have already been more exciting through four games this year, than 162 last year.

Offensively, this team has been fun to watch. Jose Abreu has been a machine so far, and is not someone opposing pitchers wish to face, especially with Adam Dunn hitting behind him. The balls jumps off of Abreu’s bat, and he seems to be able to handle just about any pitch.

Adam Eaton has been exactly what the doctor ordered so far. Getting on base with regularity, Eaton seems ideal for the lead-off role for the Sox, a spot in the lineup occupied by un-desirables since Scott Podsednik.

The bullpen has been a concern so far, but there have been bright spots. Daniel Webb, not often mentioned among the Sox future young stars, has been impressive. Webb made a brief appearance in the majors last year, but should be a main stay in the White Sox bullpen in 2014. Addison Reed’s departure from the team leaves the closer’s role vacated, a position I think Webb will eventually fill.

Surprisingly, Alejandro De Aza has been everything he was in 2012, and maybe even more. De Aza really struggled in 2013, both in the field and on the base paths. He appears to be re-focused so far this year, and destined to take the starting LF job from Dayan Viciedo, who seems to be destined for a trade.

We’re only four games in, but there are definitely some positives to take away. I’ll leave the negatives for the rest of you. And, we still have 158 left to go.