The White Sox have had a rocky start to the season, dropping two games that probably should have been won. However, in game two against the Cleveland Indians, the White Sox got the win. It’s no surprise that Yoan Moncada stays hot again in game two. Leading the way with a home run and two RBI.
Moncada Stays Hot
Yoan Moncada has been a completely different player this year and he showed it again today. He finished the game going 2-3 with a home run and a double with two walks as well. He showed great plate discipline throughout the game and demonstrated his power at the plate.
Moncada’s first hit of the game was a double that hit right at the top of the wall in center field. He missed the homer by a few inches. It didn’t matter though as both Moncada and Leury Garcia would score on the next at-bat on an RBI double for Jose Abreu.
Moncada didn’t have to wait too long for the home run though. In the eighth inning, he hit an absolute moonshot off of Neil Ramírez to give the White Sox an 8-1 lead. Moncada continues to tear it up to start the season, pushing his batting average to .450 with an OPS of 1.422. Although it is still very early, these are encouraging signs considering his new approach at the plate.
Carlos Rodon Struggles Early, Finishes Strong
Carlos Rodon had a bit of trouble in the first inning after a throwing error by Yoan Moncada at third. After the error, Rodon gave up back to back singles giving up one run in the process. Rodon was able to keep his composure on the mound despite the adversity and finished off the inning with two strikeouts.
Rodon went on to pitch six innings only giving up those two hits in the first inning with only the one run and an impressive nine strikeouts. Rodon walked away with the win after 6 innings pitched. He would probably have been able to go longer had his pitch count not been in the 90s at the end of the sixth.
Other Key Players and The Next Series
Some other key players in today’s game were Leury Garcia, Jose Abreu, and Eloy Jimenez. Leury had a strong day at the plate, going 4 for 5 with three runs scored. He nearly beat out an infield single as well that would have had him perfect on the day at 5 for 5. He did an excellent job playing the leadoff role for the White Sox today.
Jose Abreu also had a strong game. He finished 2 for 5 with three RBI and one run scored. He was able to drive in runs when the White Sox needed it. His two-RBI double in the sixth helped put the game away for the White Sox.
Eloy Jimenez also did well in game two. He went 2 for 5. Although he did strike out twice. It is still early in Jimenez’s major league career and he seems to be getting more comfortable at the plate as the season goes on. Hopefully, he will get a spark for the home opener against Seattle.
Speaking of the home opener, the White Sox home opening day has been moved to Friday due to inclement weather on Thursday. First pitch should be a 1:10 CT/2:10 ET. The game will be broadcasted on NBC Sports Chicago and WGN 720 radio.
Featured Image From NBC Sports Chicago
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