The Chicago White Sox players visited the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago on Thursday and took part in an obstacle course with the kids during a surprise visit in Bridgeport.
Last season, the White Sox faced several challenges as they progressed. 101 lossesThe team will try to improve as pitchers and catchers are set to report to spring training on Feb. 14.
Manager Pedro Grifol is focused on the present and not thinking about the first game of the season or beyond.
During Thursday’s event, Grifol emphasized the importance of winning the first week of spring training and preparing to win baseball games by evaluating and correcting any necessary improvements over a period of five to seven days.
Grifol acknowledged that there is a lot of work to be done before the first game and emphasized the need for discussions and preparation between the staff and players.
Since the disappointing 2023 season, there have been pitching and hitting summits.
Grifol highlighted the shift in focus after the last game and emphasized the effective communication within the organization for the upcoming season.
Grifol noted the differences in energy and attention to detail compared to last year's spring training and emphasized the necessity to focus on these aspects.
Grifol understands the importance of action accompanying words.
Grifol stressed the need for the team to prove themselves on the field and demonstrate a different style of play to the fans after a challenging year.
Grifol expressed his excitement about the upcoming spring training, highlighting the positive energy displayed by the players, coaching staff, and front office. He also mentioned the motivations from previous experiences and the arrival of new coaches.
Grifol expressed his satisfaction with the team's offseason moves and expects strong competition during training camp.
Grifol highlighted the increased depth in the team's pitching options compared to the previous season, indicating a more encouraging outlook.
Dylan Cease, an experienced starter, is expected to be a key figure in the team. mentioned in trade speculation throughout the offseason. Grifol said Cease has been “unfazed” by the chatter.
“I talked to him yesterday, it was a great conversation and we talked about him (pitching) opening day,” Grifol said. “And he’s preparing himself for that and he feels great. He’s throwing pens, he doesn’t have any soreness, he’s excited about this club. He’s excited about the guys we’ve acquired, excited about our catching. Brian Bannister is part of the organization (as senior adviser to pitching), he’s excited to get to work with him and (pitching coach) Ethan (Katz).
“He’s unfazed by all these trade talks and all this stuff. If it happens, he understands the business. But like I told him and he told me, right now he’s our opening-day starter and get ready to do that.”
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