It’s been over a decade since the Chicago White Sox won a division title, but they currently find themselves in pole position inside the AL Central. In fact, White Sox trade rumors are swirling at the moment with the South Siders looking like legitimate World Series contenders.
Of course, few world champions win the World Series without adding something at the trade deadline. The White Sox also have to worry about Cleveland remaining close in the AL Central, so there’s a lot of work to be done.
Let’s explore some of the recent White Sox trade rumors and make MLB trade deadline predictions for what Chicago does this summer.
White Sox trade rumors 2021
Pitching-wise, the White Sox appear to be in great shape. They have one of the best rotations in baseball and have managed to keep all five starters relatively healthy.
Barring an injury, they shouldn’t need to look too hard to find rotation help. But the bullpen could be another issue. While Liam Hendriks has been a worthwhile signing as the team’s closer, the White Sox may not have championship-caliber depth in their bullpen.
Meanwhile, the White Sox have been held back a little this year by injuries. The hope is that outfielders Eloy Jimenez and Luis Robert will return from the IL at some point and give them a boost without needing to look outside the organization. But how sure is Chicago that Jimenez and Robert will come back healthy and pick up where they left off?
That could end up having an impact on the White Sox trade targets as we get closer to the deadline. At the same time, the injury to second baseman Nick Madrigal will also play heavily into the team’s trade deadline plans.
White Sox trade targets
Right now, a lot of the White Sox trade rumors appear to be revolving around Arizona infielder Eduardo Escobar, who would potentially be a fit to be the permanent replacement for Madrigal at second base.
Escobar has not hit for a high average this year, although he provides plenty of power. He smashed 35 home runs in 2019 and is on pace to hit over 30 home runs again this season.
Oddly enough, Escobar isn’t the only player the Diamondbacks have who could be a fit for the White Sox. David Peralta would provide insurance for the return of Jimenez and Robert. Other versatile hitters have also been thrown around in White Sox trade rumors.
Finally, it’d be surprising if the White Sox didn’t make at least one or two moves in July to shore up their bullpen.
Obviously, they don’t need a closer or a high-end reliever. But adding depth with pitchers like Ian Kennedy, Kendall Graveman, or Taylor Rogers would make sense. The White Sox don’t need a star reliever, but they would be wise to add a little more depth and experience.
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