White Sox infielder Elvis Andrus got the 2,000th hit of his career Wednesday, a single past diving second baseman David Villar in the fifth inning of the Sox’ 7-3 win over the Giants.
For Andrus, 0-for-15 before the hit, it was worth the wait.
“It’s very tough when you’re right there and you’re about to accomplish a milestone,” said Andrus, who wanted badly to do it in Houston over the weekend with his family in attendance.
Andrus’ single set the table for an RBI single by Hanser Alberto and RBI double by Luis Robert that gave the Sox a 4-1 lead.
At first base, Andrus lifted his arms in triumph, acknowledging the Sox’ dugout. Fans at Guaranteed Rate Field stood to applaud almost immediately after the hit.
In his 15th season, Andrus is fourth among active players in hits behind Miguel Cabrera (3,088), Joey Votto (2,093) and Nelson Cruz (2,018). He ranks 290th on the all-time list.
“It’s a great achievement; it’s a lot of hits; it’s a lot of memories,” Andrus said. “It means a lot for me, my family and the people who’ve helped me through my career.”
The baseball goes to his mother, Elvia.
“She has the first one, 500, 1,000, 1,500 and now this one,” he said. “She’s the reason why I’m here. She texted me already, ‘You better give me the ball.’ I sent her a picture and told her it’s in the box, and it will be here for you.”
