Alejandro

De Aza

De Aza has been assigned to Triple-A Rochester. The 35-year-old outfielder spent last year in the Nationals’ system, but went unsigned for the 2019 campaign until now. He hasn’t played in the majors since 2017, and he’ll likely be organizational depth for the remainder of the 2019 season. Because of all the injuries to the Twins’ outfield, however, there’s a chance he could see time with Minnesota if he plays well for the Red Wings.

Just as we suspected. De Aza went 1-for-2 with a bunt single before taking an early exit, but there’s no cause for concern.

De Aza went 1-for-2 with a bunt single before being replaced by Brent Lillibridge in center field. No word on if he suffered an injury or whether the White Sox simply planned to give Lillibridge at-bats.

Chicago’s leadoff hitter also drew a walk and scored a pair of runs. The bomb was already De Aza’s third of the season, but he’s hitting just .233/.306/.558 through 11 games. It remains to be seen whether De Aza will develop and maintain value in 10-12 team mixed leagues.

The White Sox appear committed to playing Alejandro De Aza in center field, so this move would allow Alex Rios to play his preferred position in right field. However, there would bit a bit of a learning curve for Viciedo, as he has never played a professional game in left field. The White Sox recently added Kosuke Fukudome, so they could also mix-and-match on occasion.

He also had a single and scored twice on the day. De Aza has cashed in on his sleeper potential early on with a couple bombs and a stolen base atop the White Sox lineup. We’re not totally sold on his long-term value, but there’s definite deep league appeal here. A.J. Pierzynski also had a big showing for the Sox, homering and driving in four.

De Aza is batting .288/.368/.425 with three home runs, eight steals and 13 RBI in 42 games this season. He makes for a fine third fantasy outfielder in mixed leagues.

It’s the reason for his absence from Thursday’s lineup, as well. The injury is a low-level concern, and shouldn’t be an issue going forward.

De Aza suffered an injury in his back -- near his oblique muscle -- when sliding into second base Friday. The White Sox aren’t sure how long he will be sidelined.

De Aza hasn’t played since leaving Friday’s game due to back stiffness. It remains a day-to-day situation. Dewayne Wise will continue to fill in for now.