Frequently Asked Questions
Who is expected to win the starting catcher job for the 2017 White Sox?
Geovany Soto is expected to win the starting catcher role over Omar Narvaez. Soto's 12 years of MLB experience and 27% caught-stealing rate give him a clear edge over the 24-year-old Narvaez. His veteran presence is considered crucial for developing the young White Sox pitching staff.
Why did the White Sox sign Geovany Soto if Omar Narvaez is already on the roster?
Soto was signed to a minor league deal with a Spring Training invite because his experience is seen as vital to guiding young pitchers like Lucas Giolito, Reynaldo Lopez, and Carson Fulmer. Narvaez only appeared in 34 games in 2016 and still has a lot to prove at the big league level. The Sox believe Soto's 784 career games make him better equipped to lead the young rotation right now.
Who is projected to be the White Sox Opening Day DH in 2017?
Matt Davidson is projected to be the Opening Day designated hitter for the 2017 White Sox. He came to Chicago as part of the Addison Reed trade with the Arizona Diamondbacks and is looking to bounce back after fracturing his foot in 2016. The Sox want to give him the full season to show he can be an everyday contributor in the rebuild.
Who is competing for the center field job after Adam Eaton was traded to the Nationals?
Charlie Tilson and Peter Bourjos are competing for the starting center field job at Guaranteed Rate Field. Tilson is the White Sox 11th-ranked prospect per MLB Pipeline and brings elite speed, while Bourjos was signed to a minor league deal with a Spring Training invite. Tilson tore his hamstring in his MLB debut in 2016, so 2017 is his chance to prove himself over a full season.
Where are the 2017 White Sox expected to finish in the AL Central?
The 2017 White Sox are expected to finish fourth in the AL Central. The Royals, Tigers, and Indians are all projected to finish above them, though the Sox could sink to the bottom of the division if they trade Jose Quintana, David Robertson, Todd Frazier, and others. The focus of the 2017 season is on acquiring and developing top prospects rather than competing for a title.