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Chicago White Sox's Saladino always learning

Chicago White Sox infielder Tyler Saladino wants to learn everything he can.

He already has learned more about the game in almost his first full year in the big leagues than he ever knew. Although his role has changed in his second season, his desire to be a student of the game has not.

"There's a lot different dedication in the big leagues. One of the great things about baseball, it's a neverending class. You never know everything. If you think you do, you'll be brought back in your place real quick," Saladino said. "The biggest thing is probably the significance of a routine.

"We all have our role, so we can just make sure you're ready to do your job. I'm just trying to learn as much as I can."

When the Sox called up Saladino from Class AAA Charlotte last season, he was thrust into action, playing 68 games. He hit .237 with 4 home runs and 20 RBI and provided some stability in the infield as the team's everyday third baseman.

This season as the White Sox's utility infielder, Saladino has been productive with 4 home runs and 20 RBI while playing solid defense.

Gaining baseball knowledge isn't the only thing important to Saladino. He also has seen the effect and value the team has in the community. Whether it's autograph signings or White Sox Charities, each event has been an eye-opening experience.

"When you're in a small minor-league town, you don't really have as much of an impact on what's going on," he said. "Whether it's the community, the fans and their families. When you're here, you have a much more direct impact on what's going on and you see that a lot."

Moving to a new city can be an adjustment, especially for a baseball player used to being in different cities, but Chicago has grown on Saladino. He enjoys that there always is something to do.

"Life is a lot different. I could go without the traffic," Saladino said, laughing. "But Chicago's a nice city and it's beautiful. It's nice being by the water, too. Growing up in San Diego, that does something for me. Just being able to see some water."

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