White Sox ‘nearing deal’ with new shortstop in free agency: report

White Sox ‘nearing deal’ with new shortstop in free agency: report originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago

The White Sox are on the verge of reaching an agreement to sign Paul DeJong as their new shortstop, according to Jon Heyman.

DeJong, 29, played for three different teams last season: the St. Louis Cardinals, Toronto Blue Jays, and San Francisco Giants. He recorded a .207 batting average with a .612 OPS last season.

Known for his solid glove at shortstop, DeJong has accumulated 41 defensive runs saved over his career. Despite a recent decline, his defense in the middle infield remains commendable.

Earlier in the offseason, the White Sox declined Tim Anderson’s club option, making him a free agent. This signing appears to signal the end of Anderson’s potential return on a new contract. It’s likely that this move is intended to pave the way for Colson Montgomery, the White Sox’s anticipated future shortstop, currently playing in Triple-A.

This signing represents the first significant move in free agency for Getz. In a previous offseason, he traded Aaron Bummer to the Atlanta Braves for five players, including Nicky Lopez, who is expected to partner with DeJong in the middle infield.

Notably, DeJong is an Illinois native. Although born in Orlando, Florida, he attended high school in Antioch and also studied at Illinois State University. He spent the first six seasons of his professional career with the St. Louis Cardinals before being traded at last season’s deadline.

Click here to follow the White Sox Talk Podcast.