Rollins thrilled to start at short for White Sox

GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- Jimmy Rollins' Wednesday morning interview session took place in front of a large picture featuring then White Sox general manager Ken Williams holding the 2005 World Series trophy over his head during Chicago's celebratory parade.
The veteran shortstop smiled and raised his hands as if he was holding the same trophy, foreshadowing for the reporters what Rollins hopes are signs of big things to come for the '16 White Sox.
For now, Rollins can enjoy making the White Sox roster and being named the starting shortstop by manager Robin Ventura on the same day. The White Sox announced Rollins' contract was purchased from Triple-A Charlotte, meaning he will earn $2 million as part of the big league roster, while also optioning right-hander Scott Carroll to Charlotte and outrighting right-hander Jacob Turner to Charlotte.
"Obviously the No. 1 goal was to make the team. To win the job is great," Rollins said. "That's just the beginning. Just go out there and be productive when I get my opportunities to play and when I'm getting my days off and rest, get ready for the next day."'

Wednesday's moves basically set the 12-man pitching staff. The rotation, already announced by Ventura, features Chris Sale, Jose Quintana, Carlos Rodon, Mat Latos and John Danks. The bullpen features closer David Robertson, Nate Jones, Zach Duke, Zach Putnam, Jake Petricka, Matt Albers and Dan Jennings.
There are 29 players in camp, including Phillippe Aumont, Jacob May and Hector Sanchez, who will begin the season in the Minors. The final position player spot comes down to outfielder Jerry Sands and first baseman Travis Ishikawa, with Sands seemingly holding the edge barring an addition from outside.
At 37, the switch-hitting Rollins understands he will be sharing time with Tyler Saladino. He also understands those days off should prove quite beneficial.
"Mentally I want to go out there every single day. I know it takes a toll physically," said Rollins, who hit .354 with four homers and 13 RBIs this spring. "Getting a day or two off here and there does a lot. Mentally you get a blow, letting your body get a chance to recover."
"I want to make sure Jimmy stays fresh," Ventura said. "He's going to be a better player. At his age, he does well when he's had these days off even here. You've seen him go through it. You're just a better player when you're fresh that way."