The White Sox may have gotten off to a slow start as a result of their World Series victory. However, many veteran teams start off slowly in the early days of spring when management is taking a look at the younger players in camp. I would place more of an emphasis on spring training performance on a team that has not had recent success. A poor showing for that type of team may reinforce a loser's mentality.
I would not attribute the slow start to the WBC. The Sox did have 2 of their starting pitchers (Garcia and Vazquez), SS Juan Uribe, and potential utility man, Alex Cintron, out of camp, but they did not lose as many key players as some of their rivals.
As far as turnover from last year, the Sox did part ways with a few veterans and role players, but they are confident that they have replaced the lost talent.
- Frank Thomas, the all time leader in several offensive categories, signed with Oakland after the Sox did not extend an offer. The parting was bitter and may be a good thing for the Sox clubhouse. (although it did not hurt them last year)
- Aaron Rowand was traded to the Philles for Jim Thome. If Thome returns to his 40 homer ways and Brian Anderson plays a solid centerfield, this trade will turn out to be brilliant. If Thome reinjures his elbow or back, Kenny Williams will fall victim to his gambling ways (see David Wells, Billy Koch). Rowand was a fan favorite that will be missed, but Thome is a masher with a team first mentality. The trade will have to be judged in the future.
- Javier Vazquez was acquired via trade for El Duque, Luis Vizcaino, and minor league talent, Chris Young. This gave the Sox 6 pitchers that would make quality starters and was insurance in the case that Jon Garland was traded. Brandon McCarthy will be the odd man out, but he should get plenty of spot starts.
- Carl Everett departed via free agency. He has been acquired by the White Sox twice in the last couple of years, but after a little media bickering with Kenny Williams, I doubt he will return this year.
- Damaso Marte was traded for Rob Mackowiak.
- Timo Perez and Willie Harris are out as role players, but the Sox have a few candidates for the utility role in camp.
As far as spring training, the Sox' offense is finally finding its stroke. In the first 9 games, they averaged 3.44 runs per game. In their last 8, they have averaged 6.78. The pitchers that will be on the big league roster should start stretching out their arms and get some more innings. The pitching staff is allowing runs at a pretty good clip, but every spring we hear about the inflated ERAs as a result of playing in AZ.
All in all the White Sox are ready to rely on their quality starting pitching, an aggressive offense, and sound defense to repeat as champions.
03-15-2006, 11:37 PM
Re: White Sox Spring Training 
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