Elvis Andrus gets to work as White Sox’ everyday second baseman
White Sox shortstop Elvis Andrus throws out Detroit Tigers’ Jonathan Schoop at first base during the fifth inning of a baseball game Saturday, Sept. 17, 2022, in Detroit. (AP)
AP Photos
GLENDALE, Ariz. — Second baseman Elvis Andrus did not play in the Cactus League opener as he acclimates himself to his new position at age 34.
“No reason to rush right now,” Andrus said.
A shortstop his entire career, Andrus said he’s getting “good, quality” work on the backfields, getting accustomed to the different angles at second base and to teammates’ tendencies.
“I’m really focused on those weird angles, and turning double plays,” he said. “As soon as I get used to that, just play the game.”
“It’s a challenge for sure, and I’m always welcome and open to challenge,” said Andrus, who signed a one-year, $3 million deal this week to return to the Sox. “I’m very ready for this one.”
The Sox have no doubt Andrus’ conversion will be smooth.
“If you can play short you can play second base,” said new third base coach Eddie Rodriguez, who works with infielders. “Knowing opponents, knowing the league, having been around as long as he has that will be an easy transition. He’s aware of what he needs to do, how his body functions. He prepares on a daily basis. He knows what it takes to get it done.”
On the hitting side, Andrus said he needs 25-30 at-bats in Cactus League games. If he doesn’t play second Sunday at the Angels, he’ll probably make his first start there against the Mariners at Camelback Ranch Monday.
“I want to be fresh for the season,” he said.
Lynn looks sharp
After allowing three singles to open the game, right-hander Lance Lynn retired the last nine batters he faced, striking out four, to complete a strong three-inning outing.
Lynn threw 45 pitches, using his full assortment. He threw 10 more pitches as he gets his pitch count up in preparation for pitching for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic.
“I feel like there’s more in the tank,” Lynn said. “They weren’t getting great swings.”
Listed at 6-5, 270 last season and told he appeared to be in good shape, Lynn good-naturedly asked a reporter, “All are calling me fat last year?”
To a reply of “no,” Lynn said, “Are you calling me out of shape last year? I feel good if that’s what you’re asking.”
“I did the lighter thing a long time ago. It didn’t work. I’ve been this size a long time now.”
Adjusting to new rules
The first use of the pitch clock kept the game at two hours, 32 minutes, 33 minutes slower than the average time of MLB games in 2022.
“Before the first pitch it was kind of weird because I have my routine,” said Eloy Jimenez, who shelved his custom of tapping the umpire’s shin guards with his bat. “But I had to cut it off, everything. But as soon as I took the first pitch, all good. No problem.”
“The number one thing was getting used to the new rules, figuring out what the pace was going to be, how it was going to play out,” Lynn said.
Lynn isn’t a slow worker so the 15-second clock isn’t much of an issue for him. He worked fast in his bullpens during the offseason to get ready for the change.
“The hitters have to get used to being uncomfortable a little bit to find their new comfort zone,” Lynn said.
This and that
Designated hitter Gavin Sheets and Jake Burger, who came off the bench to play first base, homered in a 6-2 loss.
*Eloy Jimenez, who figures to be the primary DH this season, started in right field in part so he’s prepared for the WBC, manager Pedro Grifol said. Jimenez played three innings, picking up a single for his only action, and singled for one of the Sox’ four hits.
*Rookie Oscar Colas, the front-runner for the right field job, replaced Jimenez and grounded out twice.
On deck
On deck: Sox at Angels, 2:05 p.m. Sunday, Tempe, Tanner Banks vs. Reid Detmers.