Omar Vizquel wants to play a 24th Major League season in 2012, reports Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times. The veteran infielder still believes he can contribute, though he doesn't believe he'll return for a third season with the White Sox.
"I would love to have an opportunity to play another year,'' Vizquel said. "I'm not expecting to play every day but I think I have the ability to play….When you don't win you have to make changes. That's one of the reasons I doubt I will be here next year.''
Vizquel is hitting .245/.282/.294 in 178 plate appearances for the White Sox this season, splitting time at third, second and shortstop, with even one game played at first base. The 13-time Gold Glover's once-legendary defense has fallen off according to UZR/150, though it's hard to properly gauge his fielding given the small sample size of playing time.
There's also a slim chance that Vizquel can reach the 3000-hit plateau for his career. He currently has 2839 career hits (tied with Charlie Gehringer for 45th all-time), though since Vizquel has averaged just 60 hits a year since 2008, he would have to play until at least 2013 to join the 3000-hit club if he continues his current pace.
Considering Ozzie got into the Hall pretty much or his glove alone I think Vizquel deserves entry for the same reason. I was hoping he’d make it to 3,000 hits just so he’d have a more solid case.
he’s in, and i’m fairly sure it isn’t close.
Omar should be allowed the opportunity to reach 3000 hits after all he is going to the HOF anyway.
Go Omar! Learn dem young’ns a thing about playing ball!
Omar should be allowed the opportunity to reach 3000 hits. If all those bums (cora, wilson etc) can get jobs, then so should Vazquel.
It seems he’s the last guy to play in the 1980’s (Since Moyer didn’t play this year). He’s definitely young at heart. Keep going Omar!
If his body can still withstand the wear and tear he should definitely get a low base contract. Hes such a good defender and although he has 11 gold gloves, when the article says 13.. he provides leadership, and mentoring ability to the younger fielders.
he really can’t throw anymore.
It would be awesome for him to finish his career in a Cleveland Indian’s uniform!!!
And make no mistake, Kenny Williams is dumb enough to give him another year.
you’re confusing your point with ‘dumb enough to acquiesce to ozzie’s dumb desire to have a dumb roster’.
What’s he trying to do, break Minnie Minoso’s record?
Not that it matters, but I always wondered if Omar was gay. He’s an extremely flamboyant player. From his art to his singing to the way he dressed on off days, just had to wonder.