Biggest White Sox questions before spring training
By Brett Pnazek
Mar 10, 2014; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Chicago White Sox second baseman Micah Johnson (83) makes a catch on a line drive against the Milwaukee Brewers in the third inning at Maryvale Baseball Park. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Who will be playing second base this year?
It’s not super important as to who starts the year at second, but rather, who makes it their job full-time. I would love for Micah Johnson to get a shot and take the job from the get-go.
He is one of the best prospects in the farm system and has great potential to steal bases. He’ll need to have a great spring training in order to make the team I believe though.
Emilio Bonifacio was signed this offseason, but he’s more of a utility role player than an everyday player.
Carlos Sanchez got a taste of the big leagues last year and held his own, he just doesn’t have the upside that someone like Johnson has. Sanchez the most likely starter at second to begin the year though, as his glove is big league ready.
Leury Garcia has limited offensive potential. He’d be better suited as a defensive replacement later in the game.
Gordon Beckham … The prodigal son has returned after spending 26 games with the Angels after being traded from the Sox last year.
Beckham has always played defense at a high level, but the offensive game never really materialized. Hopefully he can come in and contribute, but he will more than likely be a utility player at second and third.
Can Conor Gillaspie improve upon his 2014 season?
Sep 16, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA;Chicago White Sox third baseman Conor Gillaspie (12) celebrates as he slides into third base after hitting a three run triple in the seventh inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Gillaspie was a pleasant surprise last year. He was an all-around better player in ’14 than in ’13.
However, his home run totals dropped from 13 to seven. This team should have more power in its lineup with their offseason additions, but Gillaspie will still need to put up some power numbers.
If he doesn’t, then Beckham or even Matt Davidson could replace him.
The ideal stat line for him would 15-20 home runs, 75 RBIs, and a .270 batting average. If he can get up to those numbers, White Sox fans would be ecstatic.
These are the most pressing concerns that I have about the team heading into spring training.
Some of these questions could be answered during spring training, but others will be answered throughout the season.