Opposition Research: Stephen Forsha Talks White Sox

Apr 6, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; Chicago White Sox players Alejandro De Aza (30), Adam Eaton (1) and Avisail Garcia (26) celebrates after beating the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Chicago won 5-1. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports

White Sox are a Flawed Team, but on the Right Track

With the Indians headed to Chicago to take on the White Sox, I figured I would reach out to our Chicago sister site, South Side Showdown, to get their take on this weekend’s series. Their editor, Stephen Forsha, was kind enough to answer some questions about the White Sox and also give his prediction for how he thinks the series will play out. If you have a minute, please go click around on their site a little bit. They turn out quality content about a team the Indians will face several times this season. You can follow Stephen Forsha on Twitter @HCPSportsEditor.

Wahoo’s on First: As someone who is not a fan of the Indians or from Cleveland, I would think you could answer this from a neutral point of view. Chief Wahoo… what’s your take on it and what do you think the Indians should do? What is the perception of someone who doesn’t root for them?

Stephen Forsha: Personally, I am not a fan of the “Chief Wahoo” logo. I like how the Indians have changed to the “C” logo on their caps for some games this season. If I were a fan of the Indians or if I grew up rooting for them, maybe I would have a different opinion, but from my perspective, I don’t think I could wear one of the hats or wear a shirt with the Chief Wahoo logo on it.

Wahoo’s on First: What do you think of Jose Abreu so far? Living up to the hype or not quite yet? And what’s with the #79? He knows he made the team and can pick a real number for a position player, right?

Feb 24, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Chicago White Sox first baseman Jose Abreu (79) throws during a workout at Camelback Ranch. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Stephen Forsha: I really like what Jose Abreu has done so far this season. In fact, I think he’s done better than expected this early in the season. By the end of the season, I believe all of baseball who know who Jose Abreu is, and he’ll be the player the White Sox rebuild the franchise around in the near future.

As for the No. 79 … he wore the number in Cuba, and he said he wears it because his mom picked the number because people would remember it, and he wears it for her.

Wahoo’s on First: Do you think the White Sox have enough talent to hang around in the AL Central race this season?

Stephen Forsha: That I’m not so sure of. I think they have the talent to maybe finish as high as second if they continue to play with energy, but three spots in the pitching staff scare me.

The hitting I think will continue to be more consistent as the year progresses, but the three of the starting spots and the bullpen is worrisome.

Wahoo’s on First: Going along with the previous question, what weaknesses do you see with this team and how do you think the White Sox should address those issues?

Stephen Forsha: I believe the biggest issue with this club is the bullpen. They are already showing they are a weakness to the team this season, and by the time April ends, if it doesn’t improve, this team will be or should be forced to make some changes.

Wahoo’s on First: If there was one player on the Indians that you could have on the White Sox, which player would you take and why?

Stephen Forsha: I like the potential Zach McAllister has within a rotation, and as I stated earlier, the White Sox have a lot of needs when it comes to pitching. Only allowing three earned runs in two starts, McAllister could become a very good pitcher in the AL.

Wahoo’s on First: What’s your series prediction?

Stephen Forsha: The White Sox had their struggles with the Indians last year, and this series won’t be as bad as last season, but I think the White Sox win one game, possibly two in the series, and that is me being optimistic.