White Sox claim Alen Hanson off waivers

The White Sox have claimed infielder Alen Hanson off waivers from the Pirates. The Pirates had DFA’d by the Pirates on May 31. Hanson, once a top-100 prospect, is out of options so needed to pass through waivers to be sent to the Pirates’ AAA team.

In 37 games with the Pirates this season, Hanson hit .193/.220/.263 with a wRC+ of 27. While he played 15 games at second base for the Pirates, his real position was pinch hitter. He only started nine of those 37 games at second base, and logged some time at shortstop, third base, and right field this season.

For those new to Alen Hanson, his top tool is his speed. He hit double digits in triples in the minors from 2012 to 2015 along with 30-ish stolen bases a season. He has some defensive versatility, playing mostly second base and shortstop in the minors along with some time at third base and left field in AAA. The downside to Hanson seems to be attitude related.

The big factor with Hanson remains makeup concerns: his energy on the field varies with his mood and when he isn't happy it shows in his effort level, or at least it did in 2015.

As Hanson is out of options, if the White Sox want to send him down to Charlotte, he’ll have to pass waivers again. If he’s staying in Chicago, there’s another move to make.

With the addition of Hanson, the White Sox 40-man roster is now back at 40. Meanwhile, Carlos Rodon is continuing his rehab at Charlotte. Since he’s on the 60-day DL, a move need to be made to the 40-man roster before he can return.