Quietly, Chicago White Sox player Tim Anderson played second base for two games this weekend. This is somewhat surprising, considering the 30-year-old veteran had never played in that position in his entire MLB career.
Remember, however, that Anderson pivoted the second base during the most recent edition of the World Baseball Classic, due to the presence of Trea Turner in the lineup. In the end, it will not have been a bad choice on the part of manager DeRosa. Everyone remembers the prowess of Turner, he who stole the show from the other stars of the team!
To return to Anderson, his manager with the Sox, Pedro Grifol, was surely inspired by his sidekick DeRosa to make such a change within his infield.
Shoulder pain
The White Sox manager justified his decision by stipulating that he wanted to somehow protect his star player, who feels discomfort in his right shoulder, the arm with which he throws. It is worth mentioning that the plan is not to convert him to a new position, as evidenced by his return to his favorite position during yesterday’s game (June 26), against the Angels.
However, when taking the time to look more broadly at the various stats available, the American’s defensive play has been in decline for the past two seasons. To push the analysis a little further, his batting game, too, has not been the same for some time. In his last 229 appearances at the plate (besides yesterday’s duel), the number 7 hits for only an average of .241/.279/.282, which is significantly below expectations for a player of such a caliber.
Is it due to his arm discomfort? To wounds that seem to be slowly piling up? Is he starting to decline? In any case, like his team for a few seasons, he is not performing at the expected level. The mystery surrounding the Chicago White Sox is great!
Put it in the window?
In a world of speculation, some see it as a gesture to put the main interested party of this text in the window, as popular expression wants. After all, Anderson is in his final year of contract and the White Sox have an option year valued at $14 million for 2024.
If the 17th overall pick in the 2013 auction proves he’s versatile enough to play in two of baseball’s hottest positions, maybe one of the league’s 29 other teams will be tempted to give him a chance. as part of a series or championship race.
Despite being in the weakest division, the Sox are in trouble and, barring a major turnaround, don’t look like they’ll make it to the playoffs, playing for .425. There’s no denying that a well-liked player with a good reputation in the league like Anderson could turn heads around the trade deadline.
