Five on the farm
Feb 28, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Chicago White Sox infielder Tim Anderson poses for a portrait during photo day at Camelback Ranch. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
SP Carlos Rodon
SS Tim Anderson
3B Matt Davidson
SS Tyler Saladino
SP Francellis Montas
Much has been made of the White Sox decision this spring to basically not even give Rodon a chance to make the Opening Day roster, even with Sale expected to miss his first start.
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However, the 22-year-old lefty only has 24.1 minor league innings, and the White Sox would like to see him refine his change-up a bit more. It’s a safe bet that he will be in the majors sooner than later.
Anderson and Davidson are two players who should make their debuts in 2016. Anderson is the team’s shortstop of the future, and Ramirez only has one guaranteed year left of his deal.
While he already appears ready with the bat, his glove still needs a bit of work (34 errors in 82 games last season). Davidson originally was expected to man third base for the big league club last season. But a .199 average at Triple A means the young slugger must prove himself for another year in the minors.
The two most interesting players are Saladino and Montas.
Saladino came out of nowhere last season at Triple A, hitting .310/.367/.483 and playing all over the diamond. If there is any hole on the team, Saladino could be called up to fill in this season.
Montas is a right-hander who can reach 100 MPH on the gun but has yet to pitch more than five innings past Single A ball. His progression on his secondary pitches will be the difference as to whether he reaches the majors as a starter or a reliever.
Next: White Sox: Predictions