and here is the inevitable Nieto article

 

http://www.csnchicago.com/white-sox/white-...s-second-chance

DeAza seems like their best chip to deal. He should have some value because of his offense, left-handed bat and ability (didn't say 5-star ability) to play multiple outfield spots.

 

Jordan Danks should be the fourth outfielder. He's making fourth outfielder money and he's a better defender.

 

Here's hoping Hahn gets something done.

 

Sure seems as if they have soured on Phegley.

I wonder if they still prefer Phegley over Nieto, but would rather have him play everyday at AAA while Flowers gets his last chance in the majors. Maybe they don't think much of Nieto, but feel he's a solid backup. If Flowers falters and gets hurt, maybe Phegley gets called up to start while Nieto remains #2?

I wonder if they still prefer Phegley over Nieto, but would rather have him play everyday at AAA while Flowers gets his last chance in the majors. Maybe they don't think much of Nieto, but feel he's a solid backup. If Flowers falters and gets hurt, maybe Phegley gets called up to start while Nieto remains #2?

 

With the roster restrictions the way that they are, this way makes the most sense, no matter what they think of the three of them individually.

I wonder if they still prefer Phegley over Nieto, but would rather have him play everyday at AAA while Flowers gets his last chance in the majors. Maybe they don't think much of Nieto, but feel he's a solid backup. If Flowers falters and gets hurt, maybe Phegley gets called up to start while Nieto remains #2?

This is basically my view on it. I do think the Sox really like Nieto, but it's hard to believe he's ready for the majors. However, it makes sense to have Phegley play everyday in AAA while Flowers gets one more shot. Nieto (provided nothing changes) will get into a few games here and there. If Flowers succeeds, great. If not, Phegley comes up and becomes the #1 catcher.

 

Regardless, the Sox will have to make some sort of move at catcher by next season...unless one of these guys just explodes.

Something I hadn't noticed about Nieto until now is that he owns an impressive 11.7% walk rate over his minor league career. I think he's made the backup catcher and he'll put up an OBP better than Phegley's .223 last year.