Konerko makes a better coach than player
The White Sox made a popular move for their dwindling fan base by re-signing first baseman and designated hitter Paul Konerko for just a little more money than the recently signed Tyler Flowers.
Konerko signed with the understanding he would be more than just a part-time player. The word mentor is being mentioned in his 2014 role to work with players such as Cuban rookie Jose Abreu and Gordon Beckham.
I would have made him a permanent coach and not taken away a roster spot and at-bats from other young players.
In stunning honesty, Konerko said he didn’t think he could play a full season. Konerko was quoted as saying, “My biggest concern was we have a die-hard fan base and I didn’t want people to look at this as a favor.”
What else could you call it?
The word “icon” also was used in some reports when describing Konerko.
Well, if he is an icon what about all-star pitcher Mark Buehrle, A.J. Pierzynski or perennial fan favorite Jim Thome, who was honored with a plaque and then released?
When I watch a White Sox game, it’s to watch the whole team — not any one player. I don’t think people were saying they wanted to go to the game to see Paul Konerko.
This organization is like the USS Minnow from “Gilligan’s Island” — it’s lost. While other teams are making noise with free agents signings such as Jacoby Ellsbury, Pierzynski and Robinson Cano, White Sox fans get Paul Konerko and Tyler Flowers.
But that is what losing organizations do: bring back the old-timer one more time, sign the .195 catcher and hope he gets better.
Please. Konerko is a great guy, but he shouldn’t take a roster spot.
Here’s to teaching Abreu how to rock in a chair and how much food to eat at the buffet. He’s Paul Konerko, mentor.
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