White Sox: Tim Anderson Could Be Spark Plug Team Needs in 2018
White Sox shortstop looking to bring fun personality into upcoming season for the team. Could be a much-needed spark plug for South Siders for 2018.
Chicago White Sox shortstop Tim Anderson was able to overcome early adversity last season to end 2017 on a high note. The 2013 first round pick of the Sox overcame early struggles at the plate and dealing with the death of his best friend to finish his second year in the majors solidly.
As the Sox enter another rebuilding season, Anderson is putting his focus on fun for this year. Although he’s entering his third season in the majors, the 24-year-old has goals for 2018 to have fun and step into a leadership role with the team.
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The Sox could use some fun this season, although they were a pretty fun team to watch in 2017. Despite many projections having the Sox finishing with a losing record in 2018, Anderson could play a vital role in the team surprising many people this year. According to James Fegan of The Athletic, Anderson is planning to be more vocal and take on a leadership role this upcoming season.
"“I don’t know what it is. I attract a lot of people. I just love to rub people the right way. Treat people how they are supposed to be treated and the rest comes with it. I definitely am planning to be more vocal and am ready to step into a leader role, to lead these guys.” Tim Anderson"
According to Chris Kuc of the Chicago Tribune, Sox manager Rick Renteria wouldn’t be surprised if Anderson became another leader in the team’s clubhouse. Last season, Jose Abreu established himself as the veteran leader, and it would be nice if Anderson could become another leader for the Sox in 2018.
"“I wouldn’t be surprised if he was able to express himself a little bit more. He [Anderson] has another year under his belt. To be able to communicate with teammates, you can’t force those things. The role of leadership (is) achieved by the way he goes about his business every single day.” Rick Renteria"
Anderson has the opportunity to become a special player for the Sox. He still has a lot of things to work on to reach his true potential, such as getting on base more via walks, and better defense. Last season, Anderson led the majors in errors at shortstop and had just 13 walks at the plate.
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If Anderson is able to become more of a vocal leader this year for the Sox, it will only bode well for a young team looking to surprise in 2018. Anderson’s goals of having fun, being a leader and bringing multiple championships to the South Side is respectable. It’s great to see a young player that isn’t content with just being on a major league roster. Expect the Sox to greatly benefit from Anderson’s ambitions for this upcoming season.