White Sox: Rick Hahn Hints At Not Adding Designated Hitter This Spring

Rick Hahn spoke with the media from spring training giving a glimpse into the plan for the White Sox.

Chicago White Sox general manager Rick Hahn spoke with the media Wednesday in Glendale, Ariz. During his time he was asked about the possibility of adding a designated hitter. To which he hinted that it wouldn’t assist with the long-term evaluation of talent.

"“We’re at a stage right now when we talk about development over the course of this year, it’s important for us to know what we have in these guys at the end of this season.”-Rick Hahn"

Among his point was what sort of effect that would have on guys like Nicky Delmonico, Daniel Palka, Matt Davidson and Casey Gillaspie. His point was the White Sox need to have a good evaluation of what these guys bring to the table this season.

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It’s clear Hahn is still looking at the long-term health of the franchise. Rather than worrying about the immediate future. The fact is, even if he did bring in a designated hitter, that wouldn’t put this team over the top. What’s going to put this team over the top is the young guys developing and turning into the players we think they can be.

If the White Sox can develop all the talent they have in the minors, they will be a force for years to come. Hahn understands this and doesn’t want to do anything to slow down the process. Evaluation of their young talent will also show the organization what other holes they need to fill. It would be silly to think every prospect they have will reach their potential. It’s up to the White Sox to realize who may not live up to expectations and have a plan in place.

Next: Spring Training Proving Glimpse Into Future

The White Sox are still a few years away from competing. That’s if everything goes according to plan. Hahn has definitely taken the long-term approach and is focused on building sustained success. That type of commitment takes time and patience. Hahn has shown he can be patient. He just needs to stay the course and trust the process. If he does that, the White Sox should be in great shape to have sustained success.