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After early expectations that they would be a playoff contender, the Chicago White Sox finished below .500 (76-86) last season and doubt about manager Robin Ventura‘s job security surfaced. Ventura is still on the hot seat, and here are five players who must stay healthy for the White Sox during the 2016 season.
5. DH/1B Adam LaRoche
Credit: Otto Greule Jr. Getty Images5. DH/1B Adam LaRoche
LaRoche had a disappointing first season with the White Sox (.207 with 12 home runs and 44 RBIs over 429 at-bats), and offseason trade rumors did not bear fruit. LaRoche needs to stay healthy, rebound and give the White Sox a left-handed power bat.
4. CF Adam Eaton
Credit: Ed Zurga Getty Images4. CF Adam Eaton
Eaton hit .287 with 14 home runs, 56 RBIs, 98 runs scored and 18 stolen bases in 2015, and he's a plus defender. The White Sox don't have a solid backup for Eaton, in center field or at the top of the order, so he can't miss a lot of time.
3. 3B Todd Frazier
Credit: Andy Lyons Getty Images3. 3B Todd Frazier
Frazier was the big offseason addition for the White Sox. He'll bring a much-needed offensive boost to their situation at the hot corner while adding middle of the order support for Jose Abreu, so Frazier's continued durability will be vital.
2. 1B Jose Abreu
Credit: Getty Images2. 1B Jose Abreu
Abreu led the Pale Hose in homers (30) and RBIs (101) in 2015, and he was the only hitter with a slugging percentage higher than .450 (.502). Frazier should help, but if the White Sox lose Abreu for an extended time the offense will go down with him.
1. SP Chris Sale
Credit: Getty Images1. SP Chris Sale
Sale is an ace by every measure, as he led the American League in strikeouts (274), K/9 rate (11.8), K/BB ratio (6.5) and FIP (2.73) last season. Any chance the White Sox have to make the playoffs rests on Sale being available for 30-plus starts.
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