The Chicago White Sox signed Josh Harrison to a one-year deal with a team option for a second year prior to the 2022 season. The 12-year veteran middle infielder was brought in to provide team leadership and stability at second base. Harrison added above-average defense at his position for a team that defended poorly this past season. The former Oakland A started to contribute at the plate after a brutal slump to start the campaign.
Josh Harrison: Expectations Met
To the ire of many, Harrison did not make a very good first impression. He slashed just .167/.248/.255 through his first 35 appearances for the White Sox. However, he pulled out of the early rut and started contributing on offense. In his next 84 games, Harrison slashed .289/.342/.412 with seven homers and 24 RBIs. The White Sox acquired him to be a contributor, not a run producer, and contribute he did.
The South Siders got what they were looking for with Josh Harrison: an above-average middle infielder that can contribute at the plate. However, Harrison’s run production dipped compared to his prior year (106 vs. 94 OPS+).
Final Grade: C-
What's On Tap Next?
Player availability was a big issue for the 2022 Chicago White Sox, and Josh Harrison appeared in just 119 contests, starting 107 of them. Overall, Harrison was a fine addition to the club and provided a spark at times. He will not return to the White Sox in 2023 after the club declined his second-year option. Rick Hahn will likely address second base internally if he's unable to make an offseason addition.
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