Harris: 'I'm not ruling myself out'

[greasywheels121]

http://whitesox.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/cws/new...s_cws&fext=.jsp

 

Harris: 'I'm not ruling myself out'

'Hurt' by Iguchi signing, vows to make best of situation

By Scott Merkin / MLB.com 

 

Willie Harris carries a reputation as one of the more gregarious players on the White Sox roster, an entertaining and insightful sound bite when approached by the media or just speaking off the cuff.

But a question involving his 2005 status with the White Sox briefly left Harris in a condition where he's rarely found -- the state of silence. This particular inquiry centered on the White Sox's signing of second baseman Tadahito Iguchi Thursday.

 

If Harris was relegated to the bench by the new acquisition, would he rather stay with his current franchise in a reserve role or receive a trade to another team where there's a chance to start?

 

"That's a tough question," Harris told MLB.com from his home in Cairo, Ga., on Friday night. "It all boils down to winning, but I want to play as well.

 

"I know I can still play with the White Sox. I'm not ruling myself out at all. With the type of manager we have, it's all about production. If you get the job done, you are going to get chances to play."

 

Harris, 26, is coming off of a season featuring his first extended chance to play at the Major League level. The reviews were mixed, as evidenced by his ability to reach base nine straight times in early August but also by general manager Ken Williams' August acquisition of Roberto Alomar to play second and spark the top of the order and his shrewd pickup of the Japanese All-Star.

 

In 409 at-bats over 129 games, his first season surpassing the 400-at-bat plateau, Harris hit .262. He swiped 19 bases, leading the team, although three minor league seasons with at least 30 stolen bases prove the potential is there for a higher total.

 

At Thursday's news conference to announce Iguchi's signing, Williams and hitting coach Greg Walker acknowledged that Harris took small steps in the right direction last season. They just weren't big enough to maintain his starting position, although both Williams and Walker challenged Harris to prove the decision wrong.

 

After the now infamous right-field collision with Magglio Ordonez on May 19 in Cleveland, Harris battled ankle soreness for the rest of the season. Harris also appears to be the current version of Aaron Rowand, performing admirably as the starter at second base on a couple of occasions, only to be replaced or challenged shortly thereafter through a trade or a free agent signing. Rowand hit .310, with 24 home runs and 69 RBIs with a full-time job in 2004.

 

There was a great deal of excitement on Harris' part in regards to 2005, with his offseason workouts focused on taking advantage of manager Ozzie Guillen's plan for constant movement on the bases. Harris also has the chance to pick the brain of Tim Raines, the team's new base-running coach and his close friend, as well as Scott Podsednik, who led the National League with 70 stolen bases in 2004.

 

The Iguchi signing personally dampened that anticipation for the new season. But it certainly has not been erased in the mind of the fleet-footed left-handed hitter.

 

"People are saying Iguchi is the guy, so the pressure is not on me," said Harris, who had a .343 on-base percentage last season, up from .259 in 2003. "What do I have to lose? I have nothing to lose right now. It's all about playing the game, so I'm just going to be ready for Spring Training. I'm excited just talking about stepping on the field again.

 

"The move didn't surprise me, but it hurt me a little bit as a player. I just felt like this was my year, this was my chance to play. I just hope the position is up for grabs because I'm not backing down.

 

"I was given chances [last season], and I didn't step up in a lot of those chances -- .262 and 19 stolen bases just aren't good enough," Harris added. "I wasn't given as many chances as others on the club. I made a step forward, but the step wasn't big enough. I also know what I'm capable of doing, and I'm not doubting myself."

 

Harris didn't talk to Williams or Guillen about his status or Iguchi during his recent trip to Chicago. He simply enjoyed the weekend SoxFest festivities with his teammates and the throng of White Sox fans.

 

There's also the understanding that the White Sox didn't pay Iguchi close to $5 million for the next two years in order to have him serve as a pinch-hitter. Nonetheless, Harris said that his workouts have picked up in intensity this week since the connection with Iguchi was first revealed Monday.

 

Beating out Iguchi is not the only way for Harris to get on the field. Although Harris doesn't wish any ill will to his teammates, a slow start from Joe Crede, who hit .239 in 2004, could temporarily move Juan Uribe to third, Iguchi to shortstop and Harris back to his familiar infield slot.

 

"There's a lot of ways to get on the field, and you always have to think about injuries," said Harris, who was 7-for-18 as a pinch-hitter last season. "But I can't wait to see Crede step up to his potential. We are all going to enjoy watching him play, assuming I'm still with this team."

 

Barring a surprise move, Harris will start Spring Training with the White Sox in Tucson. He'll have six weeks to show a true understanding of his role -- getting on base by any means, stealing bases, scoring runs and playing stellar defense.

 

During numerous points of the conversation, Harris stressed the overriding importance of winning a World Series and capturing that title with the White Sox. He's also a realist.

 

Harris wants to remain with the White Sox. But if the team doesn't feel his abilities fill a need, Harris is ready to move on.

 

"They have treated me like one of their own," he said. "This is where I've learned baseball, where I grew up. It's like a family in that clubhouse. But it's also a business, and some times things don't' go your way.

 

"I've heard rumors that I might get traded, and if I don't fit in, then I don't fit in. My guess is that if I struggle in Spring Training, I won't still be with the White Sox. But with the Spring Training I have in mind, I will."

[YASNY]

It sounds like Harris has had a chance to think things over and seems to be taking the right attitude now. Is it just so much BS? We'll have to see. Maybe the Iguchi signing was a b****slap that got Willie's attention.

 

Noteworthy: They mentioned the possibility of Iguchi sliding over to SS. We'll have to see if that is an option.

[Molto]

It sounds like Harris has had a chance to think things over and seems to be taking the right attitude now.  Is it just so much BS?  We'll have to see.  Maybe the Iguchi signing was a b****slap that got Willie's attention. 

 

Noteworthy:  They mentioned the possibility of Iguchi sliding over to SS.  We'll have to see if that is an option.

 

no different than what he said in the Southtown article ... he's a bit upset with the signing, hopes he gets a chance to compete for a job, and will bust his butt to try to get it.

[SoxFan562004]

Too bad for Willie that it appears KW and Ozzie have counted him out

[TLAK]

Key quote:

With the type of manager we have, it's all about production. If you get the job done, you are going to get chances to play.

[beck72]

Willie "the team player" sure could help the Sox out as a role player, pinch runner, etc. He has a lot of talent. Whether he has the right attitude is the question.

[greasywheels121]

Willie "the team player" sure could help the Sox out as a role player, pinch runner, etc. He has a lot of talent. Whether he has the right attitude is the question.

 

Exactly. That's why my stance on trading him or not is to not trade him. I think he can be a valuable asset off the bench.

[beck72]

Exactly.  That's why my stance on trading him or not is to not trade him.  I think he can be a valuable asset off the bench.

 

The sox would be hard pressed to find a UTL IFer who has Harris' talent and upside. But talent isn't everything, esp. for a bench guy. Does Willie have the humility, lack of ego, and ability to cheer on his teammates? Doesn't seem like it. He could very well sit on the bench and be an ass. If this is the case, then the sox could do w/o him, talent and all.

 

My guess is the Sox will give him the chance to prove he can be a UTL guy, and not the brash talking guy w/ a big ego.

[Guest JimH]

They need a right handed bat off the bench. If they pick up a utility IF which I think they will, Harris will be moved. If landing the middle IF proves difficult he'll stay for a while.

 

A lot of the jockeying for the 24th and 25th spots depend to an extent on Frank Thomas and how soon he's ready. If Thomas is ready sooner, Everett will be playing more OF which means there's less need for a guy like Escobar, for example. Or even Perez, although Ozzie likes Perez and I think he's on the team. I'm not a huge Perez fan but the manager likes him plus he'll be in better health without the bad foot. IMO he will be the left handed bat off the bench.

 

If they can pry Cintron from AZ, he is a good fit.

 

If Thomas is ready 4/1 you have 14 players:

 

OF = Rowand, Podsednik, Dye, Perez, Everett

DH = Thomas

IF = Konerko, Gload, Iguchi, Uribe, Crede, utility infielder

C = Pierzynski, Davis

 

If Thomas is not ready 4/1, assuming 14 players:

 

OF = Rowand, Podsednik, Dye, Perez

DH = Everett

IF = Konerko, Gload, Iguchi, Uribe, Crede, utility infielder

C = Pierzynski, Davis

 

and you have room for one more guy.

 

Also note they have no right handed hitting off the bench in either scenario. In the 2nd scenario (Thomas not ready), you have room for one more bench guy. That likely is somebody like Jamie Burke or Alex Escobar, both right handed hitters.

 

Either way, Harris doesn't fit. Can't play SS or 3B and hits lefthanded. The only possible way I can see they'd keep him is if Timo Perez is not on the team. That is not likely, seeing how much Ozzie likes Timo and how Timo is willing to accept his role as a bench guy.

 

It might not be a bad idea to keep Harris in spring to pump up his value and see what happens with other teams. I completely agree there should be a safety net for Iguchi but IMO that should be a top flight utility guy who can play for long stretches if needed. Again, Cintron is a possible fit for that role.

[YASNY]

The sox would be hard pressed to find a UTL IFer who has Harris' talent and upside. But talent isn't everything, esp. for a bench guy. Does Willie have the humility, lack of ego, and ability to cheer on his teammates? Doesn't seem like it. He could very well sit on the bench and be an ass. If this is the case, then the sox could do w/o him, talent and all.

 

My guess is the Sox will give him the chance to prove he can be a UTL guy, and not the brash talking guy w/ a big ego.

 

 

That is the big question. Would Willie be an asset ... or an ass?

[quickman]

The sox would be hard pressed to find a UTL IFer who has Harris' talent and upside. But talent isn't everything, esp. for a bench guy. Does Willie have the humility, lack of ego, and ability to cheer on his teammates? Doesn't seem like it. He could very well sit on the bench and be an ass. If this is the case, then the sox could do w/o him, talent and all.

 

My guess is the Sox will give him the chance to prove he can be a UTL guy, and not the brash talking guy w/ a big ego.

 

 

My only concern with what you post is that Harris is a utility inf. He is not. He is a backup second baseman and Center fielder. That is all. Can't play any other position. I will stick by what I said before, he will be gone. Spring training is a great time for scouts and teams to look at potential.

[beck72]

That is the big question.  Would Willie be an asset ... or an ass?

 

I'd bet that Harris goes to ST on his best behavior. Then he does or says something stupid that shows he's not suited for a bench role

[quickman]

I'd bet that Harris goes to ST on his best behavior. Then he does or says something stupid that shows he's not suited for a bench role

 

 

I bet he gets traded despite his best behavior.

[Guest JimH]

I bet he gets traded despite his best behavior.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

A lot of money.

 

If he fit, that'd be one thing. He doesn't. It's a question of getting the right utilityman and finding the best deal.

[beck72]

My only concern with what you post is that Harris is a utility inf. He is not. He is a backup second baseman and Center fielder. That is all. Can't play any other position. I will stick by what I said before, he will be gone. Spring training is a great time for scouts and teams to look at potential.

 

I don't think Harris is a UTL IFer. But the Sox need one and who they get prob. won't have near Harris' talent or upside. That's all I'm saying. I get what you're saying about filling the roster spots with someone who can play more IF spots. But it's also a problem that Everett and GLoad are pretty one dimensional guys off the bench. If Harris had a decent attitude, he could be a very valuable bench guy.

[quickman]

I don't think Harris is a UTL IFer. But the Sox need one and who they get prob. won't have near Harris' talent or upside. That's all I'm saying. I get what you're saying about filling the roster spots with someone who can play more IF spots. But it's also a problem that Everett and GLoad are pretty one dimensional guys off the bench. If Harris had a decent attitude, he could be a very valuable bench guy.

 

 

Got what your saying, the scenerios just don't work even if he was a model citizen. I just do not think he will be here. Not with the needs they still have.

[Guest JimH]

I don't think Harris is a UTL IFer. But the Sox need one and who they get prob. won't have near Harris' talent or upside. That's all I'm saying. I get what you're saying about filling the roster spots with someone who can play more IF spots. But it's also a problem that Everett and GLoad are pretty one dimensional guys off the bench. If Harris had a decent attitude, he could be a very valuable bench guy.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

Not so sure those two guys aren't more versatile than Harris. Harris plays two spots, 2B and CF.

 

Everett can play all three OF spots, admittedly not great. And he is a very good option to DH.

 

Gload can do 1B and the corner OF spots, also admittedly not great. He is another guy who started to prove he can DH in certain situations.

 

The main asset Harris brings off the bench is speed. Now that the everyday lineup has more speed it is not as dire a need. Plus, he's a guy who has speed but is apparantly baffled on how to use it ... and that ain't good.

 

Not to mention, Harris himself says with the type of player he is, he needs to be in the lineup every day. Not what you want from your bench, wrong mindset.

[YASNY]

I'd bet that Harris goes to ST on his best behavior. Then he does or says something stupid that shows he's not suited for a bench role

 

 

I think you've hit the nail right on the head. Willie can't help but being Willie.

[beck72]

The bench as is doesn't seem a good fit for Harris to stick around. But having a guy for on the bench available for pinch running in late game situations shouldn't be discounted. With Everett, Gload and Davis having basically 1 position each [though Carl can play RF and LF], the sox need someone who can play a few IF spots like Timo can play all 3 OF spots. Harris isn't that guy, I know. But his ability to SB's is needed.

 

I guess the ideal UTL guy for the sox would be someone who could play SS and either 2b or 3b, can steal bases, can switch hit, play decent defense, and situational hit [bunt, make contact, hit and run, etc]. Should be easy to find, right

[AddisonStSox]

From everything I've heard, he's still got a s***ty attitude.

 

He may say the right things to the press, but if he's walking around the clubhouse with a snickerpuss and a lousy attitude, he's won't benefit this club at all.

 

If I'm Kenny, I still trade this s***head for either a utility infielder or some pitching prospects. Harris still has nice trade value. If Kenny looks hard enough, I'm sure he can find a team willing to overpay for the "starting 2B of the future."

 

Ship him out.

[YASNY]

From everything I've heard, he's still got a s***ty attitude.

 

He may say the right things to the press, but if he's walking around the clubhouse with a snickerpuss and a lousy attitude, he's won't benefit this club at all.

 

If I'm Kenny, I still trade this s***head for either a utility infielder or some pitching prospects.  Harris still has nice trade value.  If Kenny looks hard enough, I'm sure he can find a team willing to overpay for the "starting 2B of the future."

 

Ship him out.

 

 

When it's all said and done, I think that will be the net result. I don't think Harris will be on the opening day roster.

[Guest JimH]

Cintron is ideal, with the exception he's not a speed threat. Have no clue if he's available but that's the profile you want. He can push guys and fill in for long stretches. I would be ecstatic if they landed him.

[The Beast]

I think Harris is still a valuable asset to the team. He could fill a 2b/cf role, as well as a pinch runner. He's a decent backup...why not keep him on the team if you need a spark. Say Uribe or Iguchi gets hurt, then who comes off the bench to play?

 

See? And think about it, do you really want Paulie on 3rd with 1 out and our best hitter at the plate? No. Harris on 3rd with 1 out is a threat.

[Guest JimH]

I think Harris is still a valuable asset to the team. He could fill a 2b/cf role, as well as a pinch runner. He's a decent backup...why not keep him on the team if you need a spark. Say Uribe or Iguchi gets hurt, then who comes off the bench to play?

 

See? And think about it, do you really want Paulie on 3rd with 1 out and our best hitter at the plate? No. Harris on 3rd with 1 out is a threat.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

Ross, scroll up and read my post where the roster scenarios are outlined. Then tell me how he fits. It's nice to say keep a guy to provide a spark, but there are certain needs and realities.

 

Also, if Uribe gets hurt it won't be Harris who gets extra time, it'd be the backup SS whoever that is.

 

As for the 2nd point you made, it's rather inconsequential.

[Soxbadger]

Id rather stab myself in the eye 1million times than keep Timo Perez over Harris.

 

If Harris is moved before Timo, than it is a personal decision, not a statistical one.

 

I dont think Harris will be moved as fast as many seem to think, KW's statements recently seem to be suggesting that they want Harris to step things up and make the team.

 

Also, we arent going to get a utility infielder even close to Harris's quality, and that is considering he doesnt play 3b or SS.

 

SB