White Sox twitter has been exploding the last couple days due to the MLB Winter Meetings. While the Sox are still rumored to be in on big-time free agents like Bryce Harper and Manny Machado, they are looking to fill in positions that need attention.
The White Sox pushing to take a step forward in 2019. Nova improves the rotation, and they're looking at Yasmani Grandal as a possible catching upgrade.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) December 11, 2018
The White Sox traded Omar Narvaez earlier this offseason and have a hole to fill at the catcher position. While Zach Collins and Seby Zavala are preparing and waiting down in the wings in the minors, the Sox need help in the majors now. Enter Yasmani Grandal.
Grandal last played for the Dodgers and did well behind the plate. In 2018, Grandal hit .241 in 140 games for the Dodgers with 24 homers and 68 RBI as he regained his primary starting job. Though, in the post-season, he had several hiccups which led to him to be replaced by Austin Barnes. The 30-year-old from Cuba can bring some much-needed stability behind the plate for this upcoming season.
Chisox, Braves, Phillies have been 3 of the teams on Michael Brantley. With Cutch in fold with Phils, and Harper still possible there, philly would seem less likely for now.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 11, 2018
Michael Brantley is another name that seems to be flying around the Soxsphere. The White Sox could use some outfield help with the departure of Avisail Garcia and Brantley could help fill that role. Brantley has had a successful career and earned All-Star honors in 2018 after posting great numbers across the board.
| Year | Age | Tm | Lg | G | PA | AB | R | H | 2B | 3B | HR | RBI | SB | CS | BB | SO | BA | OBP | SLG | OPS | OPS+ | TB | GDP | HBP | SH | SF | IBB | Pos | Awards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 31 | CLE | AL | 143 | 631 | 570 | 89 | 176 | 36 | 2 | 17 | 76 | 12 | 3 | 48 | 60 | .309 | .364 | .468 | .832 | 123 | 267 | 15 | 5 | 1 | 6 | 0 | *7/D | AS |
It would be hard as a Sox fan to be upset at either of these moves, they address what the team needs. Though, personally, I’m waiting for Bryce Harper to be paired next to Eloy next year. I wouldn’t mind seeing Brantley out there as well.
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