MLB's offseason is already heating up as Chris Getz and Co. have made another addition to the Chicago White Sox' front office. The team announced Thursday that Paul Janish has been named the team's director of player development, a role that Getz held before his promotion. Janish joins the White Sox organization from Rice University, where he served as associate coach.
The Path To Chicago
Janish, a former shortstop, won a national championship during his playing days at Rice. He played for nine seasons in the big leagues with the Cincinnati Reds, Atlanta Braves, and Baltimore Orioles. Getz cited Janish's experience of climbing the ladder from national champion to high draft pick, reaching the majors, and coaching at a high-level program as a draw for the Sox.
Getz has done significant remodeling of his front-office team, bringing Josh Barfield as assistant GM from the National League champion Arizona Diamondbacks. Brian Bannister also joined the organization from the San Francisco Giants to become Chicago's director of pitching.
Additionally, Gene Watson joined the White Sox front office from the Kansas City Royals and is now Chicago's director of player personnel.
The White Sox have also reshuffled Pedro Grifol's coaching staff in the early stages of the offseason.
What's On Tap Next?
This is Paul Janish's first role as an executive in the major leagues, so his inexperience raises some red flags. However, 14 Rice players have been selected in the MLB Draft during Janish's tenure at the school. His extensive coaching at the collegiate level provides solid experience working with those athletes and understanding what they need to be successful at the next level.
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