Chicago White Sox catching options in 2016
By Brett Pnazek
The Current 40 Man Roster
Tyler Flowers – I think we have all seen enough of him to know he will never turn out to be as good as the prospect we all thought he could be.
Geovany Soto – I wouldn’t mind seeing him return as a backup next year but as a pending free agent he may get a better deal elsewhere. I believe his best days are behind him but one would have to wonder what he could have been had he taken better care of himself.
Aug 2, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago White Sox catcher Geovany Soto (58) hits a solo home run during the seventh inning against the New York Yankees at U.S Cellular Field. Mandatory Credit: Caylor Arnold-USA TODAY Sports
Rob Brantly – Currently in the minor leagues with the Charlotte Knights. The White Sox claimed him off waivers this winter from the Miami Marlins who he played with for two season. He is hitting over .300 this year between Double-A and Triple-A. Could be a potential call up in September to see if he can apply whatever he is doing right in the minors and carry it over to the majors.
Adrian Nieto – Struggling with the Birmingham Barons in Double-A and while he spent a year on the big league club in 2014, he appears to be more of a depth guy than a potential backstop. If Nieto were to make the majors he’d be best suited as the backup unless he can make major strides in hitting.
Kevan Smith – Another catcher at Charlotte. He’s 27 years old and does not appear to be in the long term plans as the team would more than likely opt for youth or a seasoned MLB veteran. He could fill the role of a backup if the team opts to go that route but the likelihood of him making it as a starter appear to be slim.
In the Farm
Jhoandro Alfaro – According to MLB.com he is the 19th best prospect in the White Sox farm system. He is the only catcher who is currently ranked and is only 19 years old. He’s a switch hitter but has a strong arm which is something the White Sox currently lack. However he’s only hitting .136 in the minors so if he’s going to contribute it will not be for a few more years.
Next: Non-roster options