Draft preview: Chicago White Sox outlook

Team-by-team outlooks

The White Sox couldn't repeat their World Series performance from 2005 and there are some questions as to whether or not they can get back there again this season. They still compete in an AL Central division that has the upstart AL champion Tigers and the pesky Twins. Even the Indians are considered an improved team. I'll pass on talking about the Royals though, since I have to write about them in a few days anyway.

As last season came to a close, the White Sox knew they had to trade away one of their starters in the offseason to open a rotation spot for Brandon McCarthy, who was stuck in the bullpen. So they traded Freddy Garcia and McCarthy in different moves this winter. Now they're dealing with a battle for the fifth spot between young studs Gavin Floyd, John Danks and knuckleballer Charlie Haeger.

General manager Ken Williams bolstered his bullpen with these offseason moves as well. They will join a solid group of relievers led by Bobby Jenks, Mike MacDougal, Matt Thornton, David Aardsma, Andrew Sisco and Nick Masset.

Shortstop Juan Uribe has been accused of shooting a man on Oct. 12 in the Dominican Republic and his legal problems are already beginning to interfere with his spring. His accuser has missed one court date, so this situation could end up going away soon, but Uribe has to appear in court twice a month to prove he is not fleeing. His batting average could be considered illegal as well. He hit only .235 last year, which hurt Rotisserie owners in AL-only leagues. Alex Cintron could be the beneficiary if Uribe's legal woes cost him playing time.

Spring position battles

Erstad comes to the south side after an impressive career in Anaheim. He plays all-out, which brings injuries along with stellar defense. He's the only player to win a Gold Glove at both first base and center field. But an ankle injury inhibited him last year to the tune of only 95 at-bats. He just recently received clearance to run at 100 percent. Another injured White Sox outfielder, Scott Podsednik (groin), could affect Erstad's playing time as well. If Podsednik can't return from surgery for the start of the season, Erstad could play left field, with Brian Anderson in center -- or Erstad could play center, with former third base prospect Josh Fields playing left. Either way, all of these players, except the speedy Podsednik, should only be drafted in AL-only leagues.

Fifth starter -- Gavin Floyd, John Danks, Charlie Haeger vs. Lance Broadway

Floyd appears to have gained the edge in this competition after he impressed management during the Arizona Fall League. But Danks isn't too far behind and Haeger could be a very nice knuckle-balling swingman ala Tim Wakefield, circa 2002. Each of these three should be given consideration in AL-only Fantasy formats.

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