AL Central Notes: Spring Training continues
AL Central Notes takes a look throughout the FanSided network for articles on the Detroit Tigers, Kansas City Royals, Cleveland Indians, Minnesota Twins and the Chicago White Sox.
• Wahoo’s on First (Cleveland Indians)
Bruce Chen Adds Left-Handed Depth to Indians’ Pitching Staff: By Katrina Putnam
"“The left-hander is hardly an intimidating force on the mound. With a 4.58 FIP over the last six season, he struck out less than 16 percent of batters and walked just under 8 percent. Those aren’t impressive numbers by any means, but the Indians felt that signing him to a minor league deal was worth a shot as a depth signing.”"
This is an interesting signing, as I compare it to the type of signing the White Sox had with Brad Penny this winter, a signing in terms of let’s see what the veteran pitcher has left in the tank so to speak.
Chen has never been a “lights-out” type of pitcher, but he’s one pitcher that when he’s “on” can fill innings and keep a team in the game, if he’s given enough run support, because most likely he’ll give up a few runs when he makes a start.
• Puckett’s Pond (Minnesota Twins)
Shane Robinson Receives Standing Ovation From Cardinals Fans: By Collin Kottke
"“Robinson comes to the Twins after being released by the St. Louis Cardinals this last offseason. Robinson fell out of the lineup with the Cards after being a starter for two years. Robinson appeared in five seasons with St. Louis.”"
Though I can’t say I’m an expert on Robinson’s career, it is good to see a fan base still have respect for a player they enjoyed watching while he was not only with their team, but a player who when they make a return as an opponent can still get some cheers.
What player for the White Sox fits that description (excluding Mark Buehrle)? My choice is DeWayne Wise. Who is your choice?
More from White Sox News
- Dylan Cease should be the favorite for the AL Cy Young Award
- Ozzie Guillen speaks the whole truth about Tony La Russa
- New White Sox comments about the manager situation are baffling
- White Sox elimination number for AL Central entering Tuesday
- This former star would be a great Tony La Russa replacement
• Kings of Kauffman (Kansas City Royals)
Kansas City Royals Prospect Profile Paulo Orlando: By David Hill
"“Orlando has produced a .467/.467/.800 batting line, with a triple and a home run among his seven hits. Yes, this is a small sample size of 15 at bats, but it is still a nice start to his time in the Cactus League.”"
Maybe the MiLB veteran can continue his play with the Royals and get a spot on the Opening Day roster. Though it is a long shot, it is always nice to root for the underdog this time of year.
• Motor City Bengals (Detroit Tigers)
Detroit Tigers’ Risks Breaking Their Way Early On: By Zane Stalberg
"“Dave Dombrowski’s offseason was built on a multitude of gambles, and at the outset, those gambles are paying off for the Detroit Tigers … This is no more applicable to any player than Anthony Gose (who is) is hitting a sizzling .545 with three doubles, three triples, six RBIs, and four stolen bases.”"
Again the Tigers are a very interesting team to watch as this spring continues. They are the reigning AL Central champs the past four years, but like every other team in the division they still have needs to fill and players they are looking to take the next step.
• Southside Showdown (Chicago White Sox)
AL Central Rankings: Who is the No. 1 centerfielder?: By Brett Pnazek
"“This position is full of guys who are speedsters and can cover the most ground as expected in the outfield. They also tend to be the table setters for the big bats as many of them are expected to bat at the top of the batting order.”"
Rankings lists are always a great way to debate baseball, after giving this list a read, let us know what you think about the rankings. What would you change?
Next: Could Soto become the starting catcher over Flowers?