Following the addition of Elvis Andrus, Gonzalez will assume a new role.
Preseason preparations for the Chicago White Sox have begun, and all players have arrived in camp. Second base was one of the positions of need for the White Sox in the offseason after the team declined the option on last year's starter, Josh Harrison. Until Sunday, it appeared that Romy Gonzalez was the odds-on favorite to take starting duties at the position. However, the late addition of last year's waiver pickup, Elvis Andrus, has changed the calculus for Gonzalez's role in 2023.
Rick Hahn has stated that Andrus will take over starting duties at second base despite only playing shortstop his entire career.
"With the change in the shift rules, having someone with range and a strong arm and good instincts is going to be of added benefit in the middle infield. We think Elvis profiles that way," Hahn said Monday. "Certainly going to be no doubt that he's going to put the work in to make himself as good as possible at that position and look forward to starting today."
Life Comes at You Fast
At the start of Spring Training, Hahn raved about the improvements the team has seen from Gonzalez. Conventional thinking would lead one to believe that Gonzalez seemed destined for Triple-A, with Leury Garcia assuming the utility role. However, Hahn sang a different tune when asked about Gonzalez's role. He added that Gonzalez would also carry corner outfield duties in a "Ben Zobrist" type role.
"Romy is going to move around the infield," Hahn said. "He's going to even play a little bit of corner outfield as well. It's something he did in college. Someone described it as a Ben Zobrist-type role. He's going to be all over."
There's no shame in losing the starting second base opportunity to a two-time All-Star veteran, especially considering how well Andrus played in 43 games for the Pale Hose in 2022. Gonzalez discussed Andrus's return and his role with the media today.
"I have that ability to play everywhere. I think I can play everywhere pretty well, so yeah, just continue to go about my business, work hard, and show what I can do."
What's On Tap Next?
Spring Training still allows Romy Gonzalez time to prove he is worthy of the 26th roster spot when the team departs from Arizona to Houston to begin the regular season. Gonzalez failed to assert himself during multiple stints in Chicago last year as he piled up strikeouts. In 105 at-bats, he fanned 39 times and only drew two walks.
However, his value could be significant as a defensive replacement, as he posted a +1 OAA with the South Siders. He will figure into the fold at some point this year, and it's crucial Gonzalez provide solid depth for the Chicago White Sox.
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