At this time two years ago, everyone around the White Sox expected Gordon Beckham to build off his fantastic rookie year and take another step toward stardom. But in 281 regular-season games since, Beckham has just a .306 OBP with nearly three times as many strikeouts as walks.
There have been plenty of explanations for Beckham's struggles, ranging from his dietary habits to thinking too much. But Paul Konerko's theory, courtesy of CSNChicago's Chuck Garfien, may be the best one yet:
"He didnt really get to learn a lot in the minor leagues," Konerko said from Camelback Ranch Tuesday. "It's been tough on him because hes had to learn things that most of us got to learn in Double-A on a bus, not under the brightest lights. That takes time to get that mapped out and kind of figured out, and he just unfortunately had to do it on the biggest stage the game has."
But Konerko does see a light at the end of the tunnel for Beckham, noting that the second baseman has figured a lot out about the game.
"I think of Gordon and I just know where hes at right now in his head and I think it's a good place," explained Konerko. "I think hes going to have a big year. He's just kind of ready to take that step."
It may be two years later than expected, but if Beckham does take that next step, it'll go a long way toward keeping the White Sox in playoff contention.