White Sox, Former MVP Jimmy Rollins Agree To Minor League Deal

With Alexei Ramirez now in San Diego, the Chicago White Sox are currently searching for his replacement at shortstop. With only rookie Tyler Saladino on the roster, the White Sox reached to former National League MVP, Jimmy Rollins.

Saladino, who only played 11 games at short last season, was the heir apparent to the position and will now have earn his spot in the starting lineup in the spring training battle with the 37 year old Rollins.

“We are going to come in here and see how this plays out,” Sox manager Robin Ventura said. “I’m not throwing around guarantees for anybody.”

In his first and only season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Rollins struggled at the plate, hitting only .224 and 13 homers.  His defense was still outstanding, as shown by his .983 fielding percentage.  The three-time All-Star did hit much better against lefty pitching, so it is possible Rollins and Saladino could form a platoon.

Rollins wanted to be an everyday shortstop and according to FOX Sports, turned down offers from two other teams that offered more money but as a utility player.

The White Sox will look to Rollins to provide leadership as he helped lead the Philadelphia Phillies to a World Series title in 2008.  Rollins won MVP in 2007 after hitting .297 with 30 homers and 97 runs batted in.  He has also won four Gold Gloves during his 15 years in Philadelphia.

“The move appeals to us on a number of levels,” general manager Rick Hahn said. “It’s another quality option for our infield, some veteran depth in that area where we previously did not have it, and adds to what we feel is a quality mix in the clubhouse. This guy’s a leader, brings energy and a competitive each day.”