The White Sox farm system is very thin and top-heavy. There is not a lot of national recognition for the White Sox farm system, as there are only a few guys that people think could be consistent major leaguers. But, Sox fans will get a look at one who can possibly stick around and be a part of the future of the Sox, as there are reports that Jose Rodriguez, the Sox 6th ranked prospect, will be called up for the Texas series.
Second Basemen Of The Future?
Rodriguez is ranked as the second-highest middle infielder in the White Sox system, so expectations are high for him. He is a very streaky hitter, but he has been on fire as of late, so it may be the best time to bring him up.
So far this year, he is hitting .238 with nine homers and 25 RBIs. Speed is a big part of his game, as he has stolen 70 bags in the last two years and has nine already this year in 44 games. If he can become more consistent, he can potentially fill the void at second base.
Jose has the ability to become a decent power hitter in the major leagues, as he has a lot of raw power. If he sticks at second base, 20+ home runs would be in the upper half of second basemen in that category, which would make him valuable, since second base is not a typical power position.
His average is down a bit this year, but his career average in the minors is much higher, sitting at .284. He is only 22 years old so he has plenty of time to get better and become more consistent. He does have a strikeout issue, but that can potentially be coached out of him at the major league level since he is so young.
Let's hope that he can break the trend of Sox prospects called up that have not been able to perform up to their minor-league stats. While this may be a temporary move for an injury, he can force the White Sox hand if he plays well, as there is no reason for Elvis Andrus to get at-bats over a younger player.
Corresponding Moves
To make room for him on the 26-man roster, the White Sox made a few corresponding moves, some of which are a bit surprising.
The most notable move is moving Romy Gonzalez to the IL. This will free up space at second base for Rodriguez to get some playing time. But, the lineup was released for tonight's game and he is not starting for some strange reason.
I will never understand the White Sox calling players up, especially their higher-ranked prospects, and not playing them. There is no need for him to be on the team if he is not going to play every single day. You are wasting developmental time on a 22-year-old for him to sit on the bench. This has been a problem for the Sox in the past, and it doesn't seem that Pedro Grifol has fixed it.
Hopefully, he gets in the game in some capacity tonight to give him some experience, as he should be starting every single game he can so the White Sox can properly evaluate him. I hope he plays well and is able to stick around. If he plays well, the Sox need to DFA Andrus or demote one of Romy or Remillard and let Rodriguez take over everyday second base. Time will tell, but let's hope he is a pleasant surprise in a disappointing season.
