White Sox's Nick Madrigal believes hits will just keep on comin'
Nick Madrigal knows every major-league pitcher has a scouting report on him. And that sooner or later his lofty batting average figures to come down to earth.
Until that happens, though, the White Sox second baseman is happy to be riding on Cloud 9 and promises not to change his approach at the plate.
"The overall battle is just kind of not overthinking it," Madrigal said before the White Sox played at Kansas City on Saturday. "I'm at my best when I just see the ball and hit the ball."
Which is something the 23-year-old has done in impressive fashion since returning from a shoulder injury that cost him 3½ weeks. Madrigal has seen his average balloon to .400 thanks to an 11-for-23 hot streak that began when he went 2-for-4 against Kansas City on August 29.
"I'm not worried about where the pitch is going to be or anything like that," Madrigal said. "I've always been that way. If I stick to my plan - no matter who's pitching or what team it is - I'm going to be able to hit anyone. I've always believed that."
As for hitting for power? Well, that hasn't happened yet as all of Madrigal's 16 hits are singles, but he figures it will come with time.
"I know it's something that's been on a lot of topics from people - extra-base hits," said Madrigal, who had 27 doubles, 5 triples and 4 home runs in 473 minor-league at-bats last season. "Right now, my role is to get on base for this lineup. ...
"So whether I'm bunting every time or blooping it out there, I understand what my role is on this team. I don't need to try to hit home runs. So I've really tried to embrace that."
Fry goes on IL:
The Sox placed LHP Jace Fry on the 10-day injured list (retroactive to September 3) with back spasms. They also purchased the contract of RHP Alex McRae from the Schaumburg training facility and transferred left-hander Aaron Bummer to the 45-day injured list. Fry has a 3.65 ERA in 12⅓ IP pitched and hasn't allowed a run for 8⅓ straight innings.
Manager Rick Renteria said he still expects Bummer to return this season.
Rodon update:
Carlos Rodon (shoulder) was scheduled to throw Friday, but his back started acting up so the session was canceled. Manager Rick Renteria said the Sox will decide what to do once they see how he's feeling. Rodon hasn't pitched since August. 3.