Levine: White Sox Slugger Jose Abreu Could Play Third Base Next Week

By Bruce Levine--

(CBS) -- The world of White Sox first baseman Jose Abreu may change in a significant way next week.

The team is contemplating moving the 2014 AL Rookie of the Year to third base for some of the interleague games against Milwaukee on Monday through Wednesday.

Abreu hasn't played the position in five years, according to his best recollection.

"I am always trying to help the team and whatever they want me to (do)," Abreu said through team translator Billy Russo.

Abreu was taking ground balls at third three weeks ago, in anticipation of National League games. The White Sox coaching staff wanted to check his reactions and readiness to play elsewhere, due to the DH being unavailable in National league games.

"I have played more than 50 games at third base, but it was a long time ago," Abreu said.

Manager Robin Ventura needs as many offensive weapons he can conjure up. The White Sox offense is already challenged by a general lack of production. Chicago has been held to two runs or fewer in 12 of its 15 losses this season.

"Seeing him take ground balls, he can do it," Ventura said of Abreu. "I am not saying this would be his best position, but he can play it. If we need that offense to stay in there with (LaRoche ), we can have him go to third base. I am not afraid to do that."

Ventura added he would have Abreu doing more in pregame drills in the next two games if he plans to play him at third base in Milwaukee.

Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score and CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.