McKnight: Morel Carries Positive Attitude Through Demotion
Third baseman Brent Morel was among the latest roster cuts for the White Sox Tuesday. Morel saw regular at-bats toward the end of 2011 and at the start of 2012 but back issues forced him to miss 127 games last season.
"I don't think there's really much to say besides, 'It sucks,'" Morel said of his demotion. "I put in a lot of work and [I'm] feeling healthy again for the first time in a long time. I had a good talk with [White Sox management] and they're really pleased with my attitude and how I've been playing [and] my health. It's just one of those things; there's not enough room right now."
In 37 at-bats this spring, Morel's slash line is .216/.256/.378. He's hit two home runs and driven in three.
Production wasn't the most important measure of Morel's spring, however. The biggest issue was weather he'd be healthy enough to play on a regular basis. That aspect can be further tested in Charlotte.
"I think I played in the first 12 games in a row. No day off. Kind of testing me right out of the chute," Morel said. "[My back] responded really well. Didn't have any problems; didn't miss any games or anything like that. [I] felt like I was playing well. Didn't have some of the results but I felt good in the box. I think I got a fair enough shot. It's just part of the game."
While Morel saw work at a number of positions in spring, he's not exactly sure if that will be the case at AAA.
"We haven't really had that conversation yet," Morel said. "I don't know if they're going to want me to play third base every day then, if something happens, be able to play third in the big leagues or if they want me to work around as a utility guy. I think as of right now, I'm just going down there to play third."
Morel was given a chance at competing for the third base job in spring and saw time at short and first base. With the dismissal of Morel to AAA Charlotte, it seems more and more likely that Angel Sanchez (a Rule 5 pickup) and Connor Gillaspie (who is out of options) will serve as the backup infielders when the White Sox break camp.
Also among the White Sox roster cuts were RHP Deunte Heath, who's also headed to Charlotte. LHP Daniel Moskos, INF Carlos Sanchez and RHP Zach Stewart were reassigned to minor league camp.
