White Sox Get Catalyst & Team Leader Back

He's baaack. All-Star shortstop, leadoff man, catalyst, and just generally, team leader, Tim Anderson is back for the Chicago White Sox on Monday. 

Tim Anderson returns to the White Sox following a 4-2 road trip.

He is the best player/face of the franchise/hungry to win. Hopefully, more good vibes follow.

Also, happy Lance Lynn day.

— Vinnie Parise (@VinnieParise) June 20, 2022

Anderson has been out for three weeks with a groin injury. The Sox were able to go 8-10 in his absence, enough to at least stay in the hunt in the AL Central. The South Siders trail the 1st place Minnesota Twins by 5 games, and sit at 31-33.

The 29-year-old shortstop has, as always, been the catalyst for their lineup, batting .356—his 4th straight year at well over .300—along with a .393 on-base percentage, and an .896 OPS.

On Sunday, his teammate Jose Abreu expressed his gratitude at getting his leadoff man back.

A smiling Abreu on Tim Anderson returning tomorrow: "Please. please."

Abreu added: "I’m excited. I’m excited for him. That’s extra motivation for us. I think everybody knows the kind of player he is, the kind of hitter he is. And having him back is going to be huge for us."

— Scott Merkin (@scottmerkin) June 19, 2022

"That’s extra motivation for us," said Abreu. "I think everybody knows the kind of player he is, the kind of hitter he is. And having him back is going to be huge for us." 

Danny Mednick had been holding down SS in his absence, and might shift over to 2B, as he's performed at a .284 clip, with a .785 OPS. 

Photo Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports