The Chicago White Sox have battled through injuries all season. Few were felt more than the loss of All-Star shortstop Tim Anderson. They’ve managed to keep battling despite his absence, but it was obvious they needed more help at that position if they were going to survive the stretch to come. Thankfully the Oakland A’s provided them with a solution, releasing former All-Star Elvis Andrus on Thursday.
According to Jeff Passan, it didn’t take long for the White Sox to recognize the opportunity, signing the veteran to deal after he cleared waivers. He will join the team for their pivotal series against Cleveland. Andrus isn’t the player he was a decade ago, hitting only .237. However, he does have a respectable OPS of .673 with eight home runs, the most he’s had in three years. He will also be a significant upgrade to their defense.
Shortstop Elvis Andrus is signing with the Chicago White Sox, sources tell ESPN. Andrus cleared waivers and is expected to join the White Sox in Cleveland tomorrow.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) August 18, 2022
Chicago White Sox hope one career trend holds up.
Andrus has a great deal of success playing at Progressive Field in Cleveland. He is 65-for-166 (.392 average) when batting in that ballpark. The White Sox need some offensive juice for this trip. They’ve struggled most of the year when playing there, scoring three runs or less in five of seven games. This three-game stretch over the weekend could decide who wins the American League Central. The Guardians lead Chicago by two games.
Andrus isn’t Anderson, but he doesn’t have to be. The Chicago White Sox have proven they can still win games when determined enough. They’ve won five of their last six, after all. Two of them against the red-hot Houston Astros. This signing could be that extra little jolt they need to keep the momentum going. There is no telling when Anderson will return. Having some veteran leadership in the mix can’t hurt. Maybe the thrill of a playoff chase might get Andrus going after a down year in Oakland.
Worth a shot.
Garcia/Harrison 3.0…. not really an improvement. Another past his prime vet that can’t hit.