Staying healthy is the biggest factor for the 2022 Chicago White Sox

The Chicago White Sox had a 93-69 record in 2021 despite some consequential players missing significant time because of some really bad injuries. As we move into 2022, the White Sox needs to put a lot of stress on making the healthiest decisions both on and off the field.

The division is going to be much better in 2022 than it was in 2021. As a result, the White Sox might not have room to be missing the core players for an extended period of time. There will always be bumps and bruises along the way but missing months at a time will not work out well this year.

A lot of eyes will be specifically on Eloy Jimenez, Luis Robert, and Yasmani Grandal. Each of them missed multiple months last year because of different injuries that nobody ever wants to see. When they are in the lineup, they are game-changers so winning the division and making a run in the postseason relies heavily on their health.

Jose Abreu played in almost every game last year but he was not the healthiest he had ever been. Just to name a few examples of Abreu’s bruises, he was bodied while trying to catch a foul out, hit in the leg with a bat thrown, and hurt himself sliding into home plate on a game-winning run.

Let’s not mention that he was near the top of the league in the “hit by a pitch” category. The White Sox desperately need Abreu in the middle of their batting order producing runs at the rate that he does. It is remarkable that he still managed to have 30 home runs and 117 RBIs in 2021. Hopefully, 2022 is a lot less painful for him.

The Chicago White Sox needs to keep the injuries down in 2022 to have success.

Michael Kopech and Tim Anderson are another two key pieces to keep an eye on. Anderson missed some time towards the end of the season with leg soreness so making sure he is good to go this year is a big key.

As for Kopech, he hasn’t been a starter since his Tommy John in 2018. They are easing him back into that role so we have to hope that he stays healthy. If he does, the Sox could have a superstar starter on their hands.

We also currently live in the world of COVID-19. It didn’t hurt the MLB in 2021 in terms of postponements like it is the NHL and NBA right now but it is something to be wary of. Health and safety are important for humanity but it is also a key to success in sports. If the White Sox can stay healthy, they are a World Series level team.