White Sox utility infielder could be starting second baseman on Opening Day. The 2010 7th round draft pick is having solid Spring Training.
The Chicago White Sox have open competition at second base with the release of Brett Lawrie. Tyler Saladino, entering his third MLB season could be the Opening Day starter for the Sox on April 3. Saladino is having an impressive Spring Training for the Sox.
While Saladino could be the starting second baseman for the Sox, he will still need to hold off Yolmer Sanchez during Spring Training. Saladino is currently hitting .414 in 11 Spring Training games for the Sox. To go along with his impressive batting average, Saladino has hit three home runs, two doubles with eight RBIs.
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Sanchez is also having a solid Spring Training for the Sox. The utility infielder is currently hitting .300 with one triple and one home run through 14 games. Sanchez will be a long shot to start at second base on Opening Day, but he’s making a case to make the team coming out of Spring Training.
Last season, Saladino appeared in 93 games for the Sox. He started 39 games at second base, and took over after Lawrie went down with an injury in July. 2016 would end up being a very productive season for Saladino. He had a slash line of .282/.315/.409 to go along with eight home runs and 38 RBIs.
If Saladino becomes the Sox starting second baseman, he will need to have endurance to last throughout the season. Since arriving to the majors, Saladino has been a servicable utility player for the Sox. With this upcoming season, Saladino has the chance to start a full season at second base.
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The Sox could use Saladino’s solid defense at second base this season. He could also give the team a reason not to rush its top prospect Yoan Moncada to the majors. Saladino will be an important player for the Sox in 2017, and he could become a fan favorite with a decent season on the south side.