During spring training, I keep coming back to the question of players really competing for jobs and whether anyone really benefits from having to compete.

Typically, the better-established teams have fewer spots open when spring training starts. However, injuries happen every year and teams must be ready to pivot at a moment’s notice. Where there didn’t appear to be a hole, suddenly there is an opportunity for one or more players. In the short run, it might be better had there been an open competition for that position in the first place. Some guy doesn’t earn the spot by default.

I’ve already suggested that the 2023 Cubs would be better served if there was an open competition for the starting third baseman. In the end, I expect it will be more collaborative. The White Sox have all but given second base to Elvis Andrus based on his willingness to sign up and how well he performed at shortstop last year. I’m not sure why they aren’t letting, prospect Romy Gonzalez compete for the job. Say he wins the job; the Sox could always peddle Andrus to the shortstop-starved Dodgers.

The Sox want to give rookie Oscar Colas the starting right field spot, but also want to see Eloy Jimenez get some innings in right. The latter suggestion rankles most Sox fans (and the local media) because the injury-prone Eloy has had enough problems in left field. Pretending they are worried about team defense, yet considering Jimenez for the more difficult right field is counterintuitive.

Would it be better for the White Sox and Colas for him to have to earn the spot? If he doesn’t live up to expectations immediately, can the Sox withstand that? Can the 24-year-old handle a speed bump? Do they have time to wait for him to mature, or is the rest of the lineup so strong it can overcome any early deficiencies?

Other teams are facing similar win-now or develop questions with their own prospects. It appears that the Cubs are currently auditioning pitchers for the fifth spot in their rotation. We’ll see if it’s legit or just pro forma.