TORONTO -- White Sox outfielder Alen Hanson wasn't originally in the lineup on Friday night, but after Leury Garcia was a late scratch due to a sore left hand, the 24-year-old Hanson helped spark the offense in an 11-4 win over the Blue Jays.
Hanson, who batted in the leadoff spot, went 3-for-4 with a an RBI and a walk while patrolling center field for just the second time in his professional career, Minor Leagues included.
"When we got him, we were made aware that he could play the corner outfield positions and play multiple infield positions," manager Rick Renteria said. "I know D-Bo [White Sox first-base coach Daryl Boston] took him out there already to work him out there, and he felt comfortable enough that he believed he could hold his own out there, and obviously he had a nice night with the stick."
The White Sox Nos. 1-3 hitters, led by Hanson, combined to go 7-for-13 (.538) with seven runs, nine RBIs and two walks.
With two of his singles coming off Blue Jays starter Joe Biagini and the other coming off reliever Dominic Leone, Hanson wasn't afraid to aggressively hunt the fastball. The hits came on pitches that were clocked at 95.1, 93.8, and 93 mph. Since being claimed off waivers from the Pirates just one week ago, Hanson is 4-for-9 with a home run, and his versatility could continue to earn him playing time.
Hanson also offers an element of speed as he's coming off seasons with 36 and 35 stolen bases at the Triple-A level. He flashed that in the first inning on Friday, stealing second base after his leadoff hit.
Garcia has been dealing with the hand issue since Sunday, but he entered Thursday's game as a defensive substitute. He is day to day.