Ranking the Chicago White Sox Off-Season Moves
By Jeremy Karll
Jimmy Rollins Signed to a Minor League Deal
Chicago was able to sign the 2007 NL MVP to a minor league deal just a couple of weeks ago. There search for a more reliable shortstop, after letting long-time shortstop Alexei Ramirez leave in free-agency, had them turn to Jimmy Rollins late in the off-season. Rollins was signed on a minor league deal but was told that he’ll be able to compete with Tyler Saladino to be the everyday shortstop for the Sox this season.
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Rollins spent nearly his entire career with the Philadelphia Phillies, however, was traded last season to the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he put up a slash line of .224/.285/358. He also added 13 home runs and 41 RBIs in 144 games with the Dodgers last season.
There’s no question that Rollins is a shell of his former self. Although, I expect him to have a better season than he showed last year. At 37-years old, his time is almost done, but he could still be valuable for the Sox.
Tyler Saladino got his chance last season to show what he could, and impressed the Sox organization enough to let Ramirez walk in free agency. However, despite his impressive glove, Saladino was anything but impressive at the plate. His slash line of .225/.267/.335 over 68 games worried a lot of people, as he didn’t show a lot of pop either. Saladino was able to steal eight bases last season, which could get him some action late in games.
Who will start for the Sox at shortstop this season is yet to be seen. If Rollins is able to show he still has a little left in his bat then he will most likely get the nod as his fielding, while not at the Gold Glove level it once was, is nothing to worry about in the field.
Rollins will most importantly take the mentor role in the clubhouse this season, something he’s looking forward to. Rollins is a three-time all-star, four-time Gold Glove Winner, and has won a World Series. He has been in the league for over 15 years, and while he may be the starting shortstop for the Sox, he won’t be the difference maker on the this team. He’ll be great in the mentor role, and it was great minor league signing nonetheless.
Next: Number 5: Dioner Navarro Signing