Chicago White Sox 2021 Season Preview: Nick Madrigal
The Chicago White Sox have a lot of star power in their lineup. They also have Nick Madrigal who might bloom into a star but a very different kind of star. He is one of the most unique players that has even come through the White Sox system. Going into 2021, he is considered a prospect but he was also considered a very big part of the team in 2020. He is important to what they are trying to do with their lineup going forward.
The Chicago White Sox can use a big year from Nick Madrigal in 2021.
A lot of the White Sox lineup is built around power. Most of the power guys can also hit for contact just as well so there is no issue there but Madrigal is different. He hits for little to no power. It wouldn’t be much of a surprise if he has 0 home runs in 2021 but he will still have an incredible impact. “All he does” is hit single after single. That isn’t going to lead to a whole lot of gaudy statistics but it is going to help the White Sox win baseball games.
There is a good chance he is the everyday nine-hitter which is a key to his game/production. If he is someone who has success getting on base the way we think he can, then he will have guys like Tim Anderson, Yoan Moncada, Eloy Jimenez, Jose Abreu, and Luis Robert coming up behind him in different orders. Those guys can hit for power (home runs, doubles) which could lead to Madrigal crossing the place a whole bunch.
It is important to have balance in a Major League lineup. Madrigal brings that to the group with his interesting skill set. He claims that he wants to have 3000 hits in his career. It is a lofty goal but it certainly is something that he has the talent to accomplish. For now, he just needs to look towards having a good 2021 season with World Series expectations.
Related Story. Michael Kopech is looking very good so far. light
2021 Expectations:
The Chicago White Sox needs Madrigal on top of his game this year. He has the talent to be on base a whole lot. With some of the explosive bats that will follow him in the lineup, it is possible for him to have a huge year. An average of .300 with a lot of hits, walks, and runs scored is something that could really help this team win baseball games.
Some above-average defensive second base is more than likely as well. He won a Minor League Gold Glove in 2019 so you know he can play the position well on a consistent basis. The learning curve is pretty much over after 2020 so expect him to take another step. It is going to be fun to watch him take his talents to the next level.