As the July 30th trade deadline approaches, the Chicago White Sox are positioned to be one of the most active teams in the market. Following a series of underwhelming seasons and an ongoing rebuild, the White Sox find themselves with several valuable assets that could reshape the landscape of Major League Baseball.
The White Sox’s initial rebuild from 2016-2019 led to just two brief playoff appearances. Now, as they embark on another rebuild, their farm system has shown significant improvement, offering hope for the future. Despite this, the Major League team is currently 27-68, on pace for the worst season in franchise history. However, this poor performance hasn’t diminished the value of the talent they possess, making them key players at the trade deadline.
Nearly half of Chicago’s roster could be on the move by the end of the month. The team’s potential trades include two star players, a consistent arm, experienced veteran bats, and some intriguing prospects.
Luis Robert Jr.
Luis Robert Jr. is one of the most talented outfielders in the game, and he’s undoubtedly the top outfielder potentially available at the deadline. The 26-year-old center fielder showcased his abilities last season, hitting 38 home runs, stealing 20 bases, and playing Gold Glove-caliber defense. This year, despite injuries, he has managed to hit 11 home runs in just 40 games with a .788 OPS.
Robert’s contract, which has three more years remaining at a total cost of $55 million, makes him an attractive option for teams. However, the White Sox are expected to demand a high price, likely starting with two top 100 prospects. Potential fits for Robert include the Phillies, Mariners, Dodgers, and Orioles.
LUBOB GOES 470 HOLY 💣💣💣 pic.twitter.com/eV4mkTRcA9
— Just Baseball (@JustBB_Media) June 29, 2024
Garrett Crochet
Entering 2024, many doubted Garrett Crochet’s ability to transition to a starting pitcher role. However, Crochet has exceeded expectations, becoming one of the best pitchers in MLB and leading the league in strikeouts. With a 3.08 ERA, 0.97 WHIP, and 146 strikeouts, Crochet is a top target for teams in need of pitching.
Crochet’s two additional years of team control make him a valuable asset, but his high price may deter some teams. The Orioles, Dodgers, Brewers, Phillies, and Padres are among the teams that could be potential fits for Crochet.
Garrett Crochet's first 2 career MLB starts:
13 innings
2 runs allowed
16 strikeouts
1 walk
0.69 WHIPCertified starting pitcher. pic.twitter.com/XMS3Xy7p30
— Just Baseball (@JustBB_Media) April 3, 2024
Erick Fedde
Erick Fedde, signed from the KBO for a two-year, $15 million deal, has turned into one of the best signings of the offseason. With a 2.99 ERA across 19 starts, Fedde has proven his dependability and could be a valuable addition to a playoff rotation.
Fedde’s affordable contract and steady performance make him an attractive trade piece. Potential fits include the Orioles, Dodgers, Padres, Brewers, Braves, Cardinals, and Astros.
Erick Fedde's 2Ks in the 2nd. pic.twitter.com/KjJueHEElk
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) July 10, 2024
Michael Kopech
9 pitches. 9 strikes. Ballgame.
Michael Kopech throws the first immaculate inning of the season!
(MLB x @loanDepot) pic.twitter.com/VH1RgXpl1D
— MLB (@MLB) July 10, 2024
Michael Kopech, transitioning from a starting role to closer, has had an up-and-down season. Despite inconsistencies, his fastball regularly hits 100 mph, and he remains a promising bullpen arm. With one year of arbitration left, Kopech is likely to be traded if he performs well in July.
Someone is still going to trade a legit prospect for Michael Kopech despite his struggles… https://t.co/H1v8pdykyQ
— Elijah Evans (@ElijahEv8) July 10, 2024
Tommy Pham and Paul DeJong
Veteran rentals like Tommy Pham and Paul DeJong are likely to be moved. Pham has played all three outfield positions and remains a versatile option for teams. DeJong, rediscovering his power with 16 home runs this season, could provide infield depth for contenders. Potential fits for Pham include the Phillies, Braves, and Dodgers, while DeJong could attract interest from the Yankees, Red Sox, Mariners, and Dodgers.
Paul DeJong with a NO-DOUBTER! 🚀 pic.twitter.com/1l6yR2JTvN
— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) May 8, 2024
Chris Flexen, Gavin Sheets, and Others
Chris Flexen, a potential innings eater, and Gavin Sheets, a left-handed bench bat, may also be moved. Additionally, bullpen arms like John Brebbia and Tanner Banks could garner interest from contenders in need of relief pitching.
GRAND SLAM GAVIN SHEETS 🔥🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/0i1ghhBSot
— White Sox Talk (@NBCSWhiteSox) June 8, 2024
Eloy Jimenez and Yoan Moncada
While it’s unlikely, the White Sox may attempt to move former top prospects Eloy Jimenez and Yoan Moncada. Both players have struggled with injuries and underperformance, making it difficult to find a team willing to take on their contracts.
As the deadline approaches, the Chicago White Sox will be a team to watch. With several valuable assets and a focus on rebuilding, they have the potential to make significant moves that could impact the future of their franchise and the league as a whole.
