Expectations weren't particularly high for Gavin Sheets at the outset of the 2022 season. But the young lefty provided a spark at times and proved to be a valuable asset for the Chicago White Sox. Sheets, a first baseman by trade, was played out of position as he mostly manned right field. Despite the misfit on paper, he improved defensively as the season went on. While Sheets may not have proved he’s an everyday player, he did justify that he belongs in MLB with his left-handed power.
Gavin Sheets' 2022 Season
Sheets appeared in 124 games in 2022. He started the season poorly with an abysmal .204/.269/.329 slash line in 39 starts, which eventually resulted in a demotion to Triple-A Charlotte. But the friendly hitting environment and/or working with hitting coach Chris Johnson may have changed things.
He hit a more respectable .263/.310/.458 in his final 65 starts (80 games) with 11 homers and 43 RBIs. Sheets’ numbers – even through a good stretch – don’t jump off the page, but they have value. He’s established himself as a reserve who can play first base or DH through an injury and provide enough left-handed power to pinch hit late in games.
Despite limited action, Sheets stayed healthy in 2022. Availability was a huge issue for the White Sox in 2022.
Final Grade: B-
What's On Tap Next?
Nevertheless, Gavin Sheets will figure into the equation for the Chicago White Sox in 2023. At a minimum, the 6-foot-5 slugger has value as a left-handed bench bat with power that can pinch hit late in close games. His experience as a corner outfielder helps his case if he can continue to improve defensively. New voices in the dugout may also help the big lefty improve at the plate.
Not much was expected out of Sheets in 2022 and he will have more to prove in 2023. For now, he’s a contributor with the upside to play himself into an even bigger role.
More must-reads: