White Sox: What to Follow for Remainder of Season
By Brian Draus
White Sox still have things worth following for fans through the remainder of this season. What should South Side fans lookout for?
Even though the White Sox are all but officially eliminated from postseason contention, over six weeks remain in the 2017 season. With that being the case, it makes sense to take a look at three potential storylines to follow as the club finishes up what has been a dismal campaign. Let’s get started.
Race for the #1 Overall Pick
As of today, the Sox are two games back of the Philadelphia Phillies for the top pick in the 2018 MLB Amateur Draft. Philly currently sits at 42-70, however the South Siders are breathing down their necks with a 44-68 record. Out by the bay, the San Francisco Giants are worse (actually better) in regards to winning percentage (46-70, .397) but also have more losses.
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Nicky Delmonico’s offensive production
So far recent call up Nicky Delmonico has been a shot in the arm for the White Sox offense, especially since the club dealt away big bats such as Todd Frazier and Melky Cabrera. Delmonico has hit big league pitching very well so far, turning around 100 MPH fastballs with a batting average of .382 in limited at bats. If there is one red flag it is his overall lack of contact, as Delmonico is fanning 26.5 percent of the time he steps to the plate.
On top of that, 43 percent of Delmonico’s outs of been recorded via the strikeout, meaning if he fails to reach via the hit there is a very good chance he won’t make contact. To wrap this up, Delmonico has only walked four times in 38 total trips to the plate, which equals 10.5 percent and puts him in the position of needing to make contact nearly every at bat.
Yoan Moncada’s development
When the Sox called up their prized second base prospect, many across baseball immediately expected big things from the 22 year old. Although he’s gotten off to a slow start at the plate, he did hit a game-tying home run and walk-off single on Thursday. Through 19 games, Moncada is hitting .213 with two home runs and 14 walks. Moncada’s development will be crucial for the remainder of the season.
Next: White Sox Offense Erupts for Seven Runs
To wrap things up, these are the three top stories to follow as the Sox play out the string. Another person of interest will be Carlos Rodon and how effectively he pitches, meaning he goes deep into ballgames not just throws five innings of shutout ball. Delmonico may be hard to judge at this point but if he can make more contact not to mention adjustments once the pitchers find his weaknesses, it is possible for him to be in the picture long-term. As for the draft and Moncada storylines, Sox fans need to stay tuned as it may help them win their next pennant.