This week, the Oakland Athletics released shortstop Elvis Andrus.
With more plate appearances, his option for next year would trigger, but the A’s acted like the A’s and decided that wasn’t going to happen.
Fortunately for the player, he didn’t last long on the free agent market, as a contender made sure to snatch him.
“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 of ESPN tweeted.
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
It’s pretty clear Andrus doesn’t have the kind of offensive and defensive prowess he once had, but the White Sox are hoping he can help them cover for Tim Anderson‘s absence at shortstop.
The White Sox Wanted Andrus’ Experience
He is about to turn 34, but has experience on his side: he has been a major leaguer since 2009, and has also played for contenders before.
His performance at the plate, however, has been less than ideal in 2022.
In 106 games and 386 plate appearances, Andrus is slashing .237/.301/.373 with eight home runs and seven RBI.
He has scored 41 runs and driven in 30.
His OPS is a mediocre .673, but he can play acceptable defense at a critical infield position, giving the White Sox a viable alternative for Anderson on the cheap (they will only have to pay him the prorated amount of the minimum MLB salary).
The White Sox are currently third in the AL Central division, but the lead, held by the Cleveland Guardians, is well within reach: at 61-57, the Pale Hose are just two games back.
They hope Andrus can at least improve his offensive output somewhat and keep contributing his solid defense at shortstop so they find some stability there.
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