White Sox: Can Tim Anderson Become All-Star on South Side?
White Sox shortstop getting praise from coaches, teammates entering second Spring Training with team. Can the young shortstop take next step to stardom this season?
Chicago White Sox shortstop Tim Anderson had a successful rookie campaign last season. Anderson hit .283 in 99 games with nine home runs. As Anderson enters his second season with the Sox, can the young shortstop move closer to becoming a star?
Coaches and players alike on the Sox think Anderson has the tools to become a star in the major leagues according to Scott Merkin of whitesox.com. Anderson will likely play a career high in games this season, and the Sox believe they have a future star in Anderson.
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White Sox hitting coach Todd Steverson believes Anderson could become a star this season or next year. Steverson told Merkin that although Anderson doesn’t walk much, he’s still dangerous at the plate. He said Anderson isn’t a free out because he doesn’t walk.
In 413 plate appearances last season, Anderson had 13 walks with 117 strikeouts. Despite a .283 batting average, Anderson’s on-base percentage was just .306. Going into this season, Steverson doesn’t want Anderson to change his aggressive approach. However, he would like for Anderson to take a walk if a pitcher isn’t throwing strikes.
"“He’s dangerous. I’d prefer him to get on base too, especially at the top of the lineup, via a hit or a walk. But he’s dangerous. He’s not just somebody you are going to flip a burger into and think you are going to get a free out because he doesn’t walk.” Todd Steverson"
Through six games in Spring Training, Anderson is hitting .444 with one home run, two doubles and three RBIs in 18 at-bats. Anderson has only one strikeout, but no walks. The 23-year-old shortstop is focused on adjustments at the plate. Anderson would like to drive the ball middle away according to Merkin.
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If Anderson is able to cut down on his strikeouts this upcoming season, he could very well inch closer to becoming a star for the Sox. With the Sox rebuilding over the next few seasons, they will need a new star for the team. Anderson could be that next star on the south side for the Sox.