Moncada 'feeling strong' after COVID-19 derailed 2020 season
The 2020 season was a trying one for Yoan Moncada. The Chicago White Sox third baseman tested positive for COVID-19 in July but is back to full strength and ready to return to his 2019 form.
"I took time to rest and feel better, and I think that is what helped me to feel like I feel right now," Moncada said Tuesday, according to The Athletic's James Fegan. "I feel strong. The strength was something I didn't feel during the last season."
Moncada admitted he felt the effects of the virus throughout the entire shortened campaign, into the playoffs, and even after the season concluded.
"The symptoms, the tiredness, the weakness I was feeling throughout the season, lasted for a few more weeks after the season ended," Moncada said. "Thank God, I feel very good right now. I feel like I normally feel. I'm doing all my stuff right now. I feel I'm in very good condition. I'm feeling strong."
The aftereffects of Moncada's COVID-19 infection, coupled with sore legs, might have played a role in his numbers dipping last season. His average dropped 90 points, while his exit velocity fell nearly 5 mph.
| SEASON | PA | HR | RBI | OPS+ | WAR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 559 | 25 | 79 | 140 | 5.7 |
| 2020 | 231 | 6 | 24 | 94 | 1.6 |
With Moncada feeling like his old self and the White Sox adding Lance Lynn, Liam Hendriks, and Adam Eaton after reaching the playoffs last season, the Cuban infielder expects a big year from himself and the South Siders.
"I'm working with a goal, to try to put myself in the best position to have success this season," Moncada explained. "But I'm not thinking just in the regular season. I'm not thinking we're going to play into September. I'm thinking we're going to have a deep run into October and then I have to be ready for it."