The Minor League Beat - Vol. 1

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Minor League Beat - Volume 1

 

FutureSox.com's very own Jason Gage is back in action, contributing a weekly minor league beat report. The report will be filled with his opinion of the various comings and goings around the organization. In this weeks report, Gage discusses Russell's move to the pen, Danny Richar, and Jack Egbert.

 

Move of the Week

Adam Russell headed to the Barons pen

 

FutureSox’s Take:

Adam Russell’s road to “the show” got upgraded this week as the big league club has fast tracked Russell with a move from the rotation to the pen. The funny thing is typically a move to the bullpen can be thought of as a demotion in a sense, but with Russell having one plus pitch (fastball) and one above average pitch (slider), the move makes perfect sense. Factor in Russell’s strengths as a potential reliever with the struggles of the Sox pen and you get a perfect match. Sox fans should expect to see the young righty in the Sox bullpen in the near future (ie, the next month).

 

I’m feeling Hot Hot Hot

Danny Richar, 2B/SS, has been on an absolute tear since being acquired by the Chicago White Sox (in exchange for Aaron Cunningham). In 26 games, Richar is batting .367 with 5 HR’s, 15 RBI’s and an outstanding 1.021 OPS. The Sox knew Richar could hit, but they have also been surprised by his glove and have given Richar an opportunity to prove himself at shortstop. Richar has the tools to be a good shortstop but needs to over come the mental lapses that plagued him in Arizona.

 

FutureSox.com expects the White Sox to make a deal between now and the July 31st trade deadline which will free up a roster spot (and potentially a starting spot) for the 24 year old infielder.

 

More Cowbell…More Egbert

Jack Egbert’s mastery of AA has continued (10-7, 2.58 ERA, 122 INN, 98 H, 118K) as the 24 year sinkerballer had a mediocre game on July 19th (and I say this semi sarcastically) as he gave up just 1 runs and six hits in six innings of work which was nothing compared to his previous outing where he struck out 13 in seven shutout innings of work. Egbert should have a promotion in his future. The most likely destination is Charlotte where he would replace Gavin Floyd (who will be promoted once the White Sox deal Jose Contreras) or to Chicago where Egbert could be placed in the pen and slowly adjust to life in the bigs.

 

For more information, on Egbert, please see FutureSox.com’s recent interview