Eloy Jimenez makes major-league debut for the White Sox in rain-delayed opener against the Royals




ain is threatening the White Sox opener against the Royals Thursday afternoon at Kauffman Stadium.

The game officially is in a rain delay with an announced starting time of 5 p.m.

Carlos Rodon is scheduled to make his first opening-day start in a battle of rebuilding teams, while rookie Eloy Jimenez makes his major-league debut, batting fifth and playing left field.
“One of the hazards opening in the Midwest,” general manager Rick Hahn said. “I understand the forecast in Chicago is actually like 60 and sunny right now. But unfortunately neither of us are there.
“Hopefully we’re able to get this going today and get going on the year. We’re all very optimistic and excited to get going.”
Hahn joked he should’ve studied meteorology at school with all the weather-related issues he’s had to deal with in his job. Last year the third game of the opening series in Kansas City, Mo., was postponed because of snow.
One person who doesn’t seem bothered by the rain is Jimenez, the top prospect who has family and friends on hand for his debut.
Jimenez said he slept normal Wednesday night and is anxious to get out in the field.
“I dreamed about this day a million times,” he said. “I think it’s going to be special.”
So what happened in those dreams?
“Line drive out,” he said of his first at-bat, before adding: “Homer (and) base hit.”
Manager Rick Renteria said Jimenez will be given the chance to prove he’s a solid defensive player and won’t be lifted late in games.
“To quell that right now, I’m not planning on (a) defensive replacement for him,” Renteria said. “He’s going to play.”
So he’s confident Jimenez can handle himself in left?
“He’s going to have to, because I’m not defending for him right now,” he replied.
If the game gets in, Jose Abreu will be at first, with Yonder Alonso as the DH.