With the White Sox in need of offense, Jose Abreu could play third base in Milwaukee, though the possibility seems remote.
The first baseman said he’s ready if needed, though he hasn’t played the hot corner in at least five years or heard anything official from Robin Ventura.
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The White Sox — who open a three-game interleague series against the Milwaukee Brewers on Monday — have discussed the possibility of Abreu at third so they can keep both he and Adam LaRoche in the lineup. Through 25 games, the White Sox have scored three runs or fewer 15 times. The team’s 3.32 runs per game average is 28th in the majors and last in the American League.
“There’s a possibility of that,” Ventura said. “He can do it. … It might not be his best position but he can play. So if we need that offense to stay in there with LaRoche, we can move him over to third base.
“I’m not afraid to do that.”
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Abreu has taken grounders at third during batting practice since spring training. He also impressed White Sox executive vice president Kenny Williams with how he handled the position during a workout prior to signing his six-year, $68-million contract. Abreu said through an interpreter he has played more than 50 games at third, “but it was a long time ago.”
“If it is the best for the team, I will be very glad to do it,” Abreu said. “That’s it. I’m always trying to help the team in whatever the team needs me to help them.”