PREVIEW: Shortstop

I this preview, we will be discussing the White Sox Shortstop situation. Alexei Ramirez will head into Spring Training as the projected starter, with no real competition to take his spot. Ramirez, who played 2nd last year, will be taking over for the Gold Glove Orlando Cabrera. Ramirez played Shortstop as his main position in Cuba so he should have no problem making the transition, as he possess a strong arm and excellent range. On the offensive side, Ramirez finished 2nd to Rays 3rd Baseman Evan Longoria in the AL Rookie of the Year Award. The missile hit .290 with 21 HR and 77 RBI. He needs to improve on stealing bases. He has good speed, maybe the best on the team next to Jerry Owens, but does not know how to steal a base in America. Just because you have speed doesn't mean that you will steal a ton of bases. Bobby Abreu, who the Sox are linked to, doesn't posses a lot of speed, but what he does have is excellent timing. On another note, another adjustment Ramirez has to make is having better on-base skills. He had a .317 OBP last year, and the reason why it is so low is because he is a free swinger and is not patient. This probably won't change, but after his rookie year, he should know pitchers better, so that should improve his overall stats. The Sox look solid at short, and should be good for the season.

SS Depth Chart

1. Alexei Ramirez

2. Brent Lillibridge

3. Wilson Betemit

4. Gordon Beckham