Konerko To Return To White Sox in 2014

By Benjy Lipsman in News on Dec 4, 2013 4:30PM

Paul Konerko will return to the White Sox in 2014. At least that's the word first reported by FoxSports.com's Ken Rosenthal. An official team announcement is expected later today.

After having taken about two months to decide his future following the end of a disappointing 2013 White Sox campaign, Konerko, the club's leader for more than a decade, has decided to put off retirement and play another season on the South Side. Reports state his deal is for one year at $2.5 million.

The future of the 37-year-old Konerko had been the topic of much speculation, especially once the White Sox signed Cuban slugger Jose Abreu. With Abreu and Adam Dunn on the roster to fill the lineup card at first base and designated hitter, there were questions whether there was really a place for Paulie in 2014. Team officials stated all along that there would be a spot on the roster if he chose to return and it appears that White Sox management meant it (unlike Bears' management's comments regarding Brian Urlacher's return).

Konerko hit just .224 in 2013 with 12 home runs and 54 RBIs, a clear decline in numbers in his 16th season in the Major Leagues. Given his 2013 production and low price, we'd expect to see Konerko primarily on the bench, pinch hitting as well as playing both first base and DH behind Abreu and Dunn.

While his on-field production might not bring that much to the Sox, there's likely hope a farewell tour might bring some fans into the park and sell some tickets -- especially if the team has another mediocre season. Konerko is the team's second all-time home run hitter and leader in RBI. He has played for the White Sox since 1999, and has been a team leader and face of the franchise for much of his 15-year tenure in Chicago.