Coaching changes and roster moves highlight this hump day. Here’s the latest…
Omar Vizquel will not return to the organization
Former White Sox player Omar Vizquel will not be returning to the organization as a minor league manager next season, as first reported by MLB.com’s Scott Merkin. The split between parties is being described as a friendly one. Here’s what director of player development Chris Getz told Merkin about the move:
Vizquel has spent the past two seasons as a manager in the minor league system, coaching the Winston-Salem Dash in 2018 before spending this past season with the Birmingham Barons.
White Sox add players to 40-man roster ahead of Rule 5 deadline
The White Sox added seven prospects to their 40-man roster this afternoon, protecting them from this year’s Rule 5 Draft. These players include right-handed pitchers Zack Burdi, Dane Dunning, Matt Foster, and Jimmy Lambert; left-handed pitcher Bernardo Flores Jr.; catcher Yermin Mercedes; and outfielder Blake Rutherford.
One notable name missing from this list is right-handed pitcher Alec Hansen. After battling through injury and struggles over the past several years, the pitching prospect is the most recognizable unprotected prospect.
This year’s Rule 5 Draft will be held on December 12, 2019 in San Diego.
White Sox reportedly among top teams in pursuit of Zack Wheeler
On MLB Network yesterday, insider Jon Paul Morosi reported that the White Sox were one of four teams in “the leading group right now” for Zack Wheeler.
The right-handed pitcher was the owner of an 11-8 record for the Mets last year with 195.1 IP, 195 strikeouts, 22 walks, 1.259 WHIP, 3.96 ERA, and 4.1 WAR.
Paul Konerko debuts on Hall of Fame ballot
In case you missed it, former White Sox first baseman Paul Konerko is making his debut on this year’s Hall of Fame ballot.
Along with Paulie in terms of ex-White Sox players on the ballot are Adam Dunn, Omar Vizquel, Andruw Jones, J.J. Putz, Manny Ramirez, and Sammy Sosa.
Pitchers returning from Tommy John surgery
Several White Sox pitchers are progressing well on their road to recovery from Tommy John surgery. Guys like Dane Dunning, Jimmy Lambert, and Ryan Burr were among the arms who posted to social media showing they have begun with their throwing programs.
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Featured photo: White Sox/Twitter
I cannot wait for the 2020 season to begin.
This 2019 White Sox were so exciting to watch with all the young talent that they have.
GO!!! GO!!! WHITE SOX!!!!