Jose Rodriguez Does Nothing But Hit

In late August, White Sox assistant general manager and director of player development Chris Getz was raving about the organization’s array of infield talent.

He made sure to mention 20-year-old shortstop Jose Rodriguez.

“Pleasantly surprised would be the right way to put it,” Getz said.

Signed as an international free agent out of the Dominican Republic in 2018, Rodriguez debuted in the Dominican Summer League in 2018 and reached the Rookie-level Arizona League for 44 games in 2019 before the pandemic struck.

“We always knew he could play and be an impactful prospect,” Getz said. “But we didn’t know the effect that not having a real 2020 season would have on him. He fortunately did not skip a beat and did nothing but hit.”

Beginning this season with Low-A Kannapolis, Rodriguez earned a promotion to High-A Winston-Salem before wrapping it up with four games at Double-A Birmingham.

In 111 games he hit .301/.338/.469 with 14 home runs and 30 stolen bases.

“His strengths are the hit tool, above-average instincts and he has some power at a premium position,” Getz said.

A natural shortstop, Rodriguez also played second and third base this season.

“No season has taught us more about the value of versatility like this past one,” Getz said.

Rodriguez’s season didn’t end in September. The White Sox assigned him to the Arizona Fall League, where he was one of the youngest players.

“Going to the AFL is another step toward the major leagues for Jose,” Getz said. “It should give him even more confidence after playing with and against other team’s top prospects.”

After making such a rapid rise this season, Rodriguez is ticketed for Birmingham next season.

“Get back to Double-A and continue working on controlling his aggression in the box, understanding what the pitcher is going to try to have him do at the plate,” Getz said. “We’re hoping he tackles an important level in his development.”

CHI-LITES

— After being released in late July, righthander Tyler Johnson is back with the organization. He agreed to a minor league contract and was assigned to Triple-A Charlotte.

— Limited to 23.2 innings during the season due to shoulder discomfort, righthander Jared Kelley was feeling healthy enough to do some throwing in the instructional league.