Chicago White Sox 2015 preview and predictions
By Robby Sabo
Can Robin Ventura and the Chicago White Sox finally contend after a loaded offseason?
If last year was the story of the Chicago White Sox led by Robin Ventura, then 2015 will be the story of the Chicago White Sox reloaded, led by Robin Ventura.
No team this side of San Diego did more during the offseason. General manager Rick Hahn acted like a kid in the candy store, checking off one team need after another.
It’s a good thing too for the South Side fans – their team finished 73-89, fourth in the AL Central last season.
It was a disappointing year for Chicago, especially coming off a 2012 that saw a solid 85 victories for first year manager Ventura.
Offensively the Sox saw their fair share of success, finishing 13th in the majors with 660 runs. Chicago’s lineup didn’t set the world on fire, but did enough to field an average team, and there was one guy who his part.
Cuban sensation Jose Abreu took the baseball world by storm. His season of 36 home runs, 107 runs batted in while hitting a very nice .317 has furthered the obsession big-league general managers and scouts now have with the Cuban ball player.
Abreu took home rookie of the year honors and looks to build upon his fantastic first campaign.
With a whirlwind of free-agent acquisitions, the White Sox front office has high hopes for 2015.
2014 Notes:
- Record: 73-89
- Playoffs: Did not qualify
- 27th in MLB with 758 runs allowed
Leaders:
- Jose Abreu, 36 HR
- Jose Abreu, 107 RBI
- Jose Abreu, .317 BA
- Jose Abreu, .383 OBP
- Jose Abreu, .581 SLG
- Alexei Ramirez, 82 Runs
- Alexei Ramirez, 21 SB
- Chris Sale, 12 Wins
- Chris Sale, 208 K’s
- Chris Sale, 2.17 ERA
- Chris Sale, .97 WHIP
- Jake Petricka, 14 Saves
Next: Roster Movement