The Chicago White Sox had a massive hole in their lineup toward the end of the 2022 season after star shortstop Tim Anderson suffered a season-ending injury. Two-time All-Star shortstop Elvis Andrus played serviceably in his place, and he’s now being rewarded for doing so.
According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, the White Sox and Andrus agreed on a one-year deal on Sunday pending a physical. Now that Anderson is healthy ahead of the 2023 season, he’s expected to play second base this year for Chicago.
Infielder Elvis Andrus and the Chicago White Sox are in agreement on a one-year deal, pending physical, sources tell ESPN. Andrus, who filled in at shortstop when Tim Anderson was injured last year, is expected to play second base for the White Sox.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) February 19, 2023
While Andrus is not nearly the player he once was in his career, he seemed to have a bit of a career revival in Chicago after being released by the Oakland Athletics. During his time in Chicago, he batted .273/.309/.464 with a .773 OPS.
White Sox fans took notice of this move on Sunday. Most seem to be extremely happy to be bringing Elvis Andrus back ahead of the 2023 season.
And he instantly becomes a key leader in the clubhouse. They needed someone for that role. https://t.co/RDCMrkm33G
— Jesse Rogers (@JesseRogersESPN) February 20, 2023
Love this move by the Sox! https://t.co/YERc1tNJ5j
— Vince Lovergine (@Vince_Lovergine) February 19, 2023
Love it. Welcome back, Elvis!
— Joe Ruffalo 📸 (@jruff96) February 19, 2023
WS champs 🔜
— Evan (@OhChev) February 19, 2023
Andrus has always been a very solid fielder and a good contact hitter toward the top of the order throughout his career. It will be very interesting to see if that defensive success carries over to the second base position. The veteran defender has shockingly never played second base in his entire 14-year MLB career.
A veteran leader like Andrus in the clubhouse will always be a commodity among MLB teams. This move should greatly help the White Sox as they attempt to return to the postseason in 2023.
