Update

[LDF]

From BA

 

 

What The System Has Produced Lately: Third baseman Joe Crede has been on the brink of making the White Sox lineup since winning the Southern League MVP in 2000. But after losing spring training battles in 2001 and 2002 and unimpressive showings in brief late-season callups, Crede finally looked like he belonged last year. He hit .285-12-35 in 200 at-bats securing the everyday job for 2003. Outfielder Aaron Rowand showed promise with the bat, but might be keeping center field warm for top prospect Joe Borchard.

 

Best-Stocked Position: The White Sox are pitching-heavy, and specifically loaded from the left side after Royce Ring (first round) and Daniel Haigwood (16th round) were drafted last year, and Neal Cotts was acquired from the Athletics in a trade. Two seasons ago, Dennis Ulacia emerged in the minors and Mark Buehrle established himself as a frontline starter in Chicago. In two seasons Heath Phillips, 21, posted an 8-23 minor league record but a 3.52 ERA. Corwin Malone, rated as the Sox’ No. 6 prospect, was still honing his lively arsenal.

 

Best Teenage Prospect: Not only is Anthony Webster, 19, one of the best athletes in the organization, he has shown the potential to become a contributor at the plate and a threat on the bases. He has drawn comparisons to a young Marquis Grissom, but the lefthanded-hitting Webster displayed an impressive knowledge of the strike zone last year drawing 38 walks against 38 strikeouts for Rookie-level Bristol.

 

Prepare For Takeoff: Third baseman Micah Schnurstein was a surprise seventh round pick last year, but he performed well in the Rookie-level Arizona League, batting .332-3-48 with a league-record 26 doubles in 205 at-bats. Drafted as a second baseman, the 18-year old made a swift transition to third base and could move up to low Class A Kannapolis this year. After just a half season of pro ball, he has already garnered comparisons to Phil Nevin.

 

Time Is Running Out For: After hitting .214 in his first five seasons, shortstop Jason Dellaero, who had resisted a move to the mound, worked 17 innings between Double-A Birmingham and Triple-A Charlotte. He wouldn’t fully commit to the idea, though, and split his time between shortstop and relieving. Drafted in the first round in 1997, Dellaero hit .220-9-30 last year.