Phil Rogers Making Things Up, Passing Them Off as Fact

If you caught the latest edition of Phil Rogers' MLB Whispers, you undoubtedly saw that he suggests the White Sox pick up former American League MVP and free agent Ivan Rodriguez. Now, this would normally not be a big deal, but for two reasons. First, the name of Rogers' piece is entitled "MLB Whispers," which would lead you to believe that there's some element of a legitimate rumor or two there, right? Nope, the column is all about what Phil thinks KW and the Cubs should be doing. Fine, but it doesn't take much of a search to see that I-Rod isn't generating a lot of interest especially not for the money he's still holding out for. What's especially bothersome, though, is this exact same faux rumor was posted days ago by Scot Gregor at the Daily Herald. But at least Gregor can admit that this is just a wild internet-only rumor with no basis in reality.

However, this does reveal a lot about the White Sox off-season... It's more interesting to talk about what's not happening that what is. Pitchers and catchers report in less than a month, the first Spring Training game is less than a month away and the Sox still have numerous holes on this team. There's no lead-off hitter. There's no centerfielder. There's no lefty in the bullpen after Matt Thornton. There seem to be no real plans at second base or third base. I know the Sox want to invigorate the team with a boost of youth, but they seem to be just a few moves away from being the clear favorite in the Central division. Not all youth movements are the same, and unfortunately, I don't completely feel comfortable with this one.