The Chicago White Sox will soon have to worry about the contract for first baseman Munetaka Murakami.

The rookie has taken the MLB by storm, earning an All-Star appearance this season with a .232 batting average, 20 home runs, and 42 RBIs despite only playing in 60 games due to a hamstring issue that caused him to miss 35 games.

Murakami has been key reason why the White Sox are tied with the Cleveland Guardians for first place in the American League Central at the All-Star break with a 50-45 record, a dramatic turnaround after two disappointing campaigns in 2024 and 2025.

Murakami, a four-time All-Star in Nippon Professional Baseball, signed a two-year contract with the White Sox worth $34 million in December. He’s set to become a free agent after the 2027 season, and there is some concern in the South Side that a team like the Los Angeles Dodgers would love to pounce on the 26-year-old budding star.

More News: Grading the White Sox 5 day 1 2026 MLB Draft selections

Munetaka Murakami wants to stay with Chicago White Sox

More News: White Sox 2025 All-Star could be back soon after latest milestone

Per James Fegan of SoxMachine, Murakami said Tuesday that he wants to stay with Chicago past 2027, but he’s not worried about signing a contract extension in the immediate future.

“All-Star first baseman Munetaka Murakami said he’s not thinking or talking specifics about contract extensions right now, but affirmed that he would like to stay with the White Sox long-term,” Fegan posted on X.

That’s good news for the White Sox. Chicago should try to lock down Murakami as soon as possible rather than delay it towards the end of the 2027 season. Frankly, it’s possible that he could put up even better numbers as he gains more experience in the MLB.

Murakami has been impressed with the culture the White Sox have in the clubhouse this season and believes the team can make a push to make the World Series this season.

“We’re not afraid of anything right now,” Murakami said, via Ryan McGuffey of The REKAP. “We want to win, and we have that winning culture in our blood, so we’re going to look forward to going to the World Series, and that’s where we’re aiming right now. Nothing is surprising us at the moment.”

A hefty contract extension for Murakami this offseason shouldn’t surprise the White Sox.

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The Chicago White Sox find themselves in a spot not many believed they would be in at this point of the season. With the MLB All-Star break here, the White Sox sit in first place in the AL Central.

They have been one of the most surprising teams so far this season, surging after a bit of a sluggish start. While the White Sox are hoping to speed up this rebuild and get a taste of the playoffs this season, the future is also looking bright.

Over the weekend, the White Sox had the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft, selecting former UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky. The White Sox then took Landon Thome, out of Nazareth Academy, the son of Jim Thome at No. 34 overall. While those two picks stand out, the White Sox are earning some praise for their entire draft class already.

MLB analyst was blown away by White Sox draft haul

Senior MLB writer Jim Callis focuses on the draft year round, so he knows a lot about each class and prospect. When he praises you, it’s a good thing and that’s exactly what happened Monday for the White Sox.

While appearing on the “Mully & Haugh” show on 104.3 The Score, Callis says he was “blown away” by the White Sox draft haul.

“I always joke, the teams that always look the best are the teams that have the most draft picks or biggest bonus pool,” Callis said. “I’ll go to the White Sox, they had a $20 million bonus pool. You got Roch Cholowsky who is one of the two best players in the draft, you got two of the best high school hitters in Landon Thome and Cole Prosek. . . To get Cholowsky, Thome and Prosek at the top of the draft, I mean, I know they have other players and I’m not dismissing players in the big leagues or the system but I mean, you can have a scenario where that could be 3-4-5 for some team, or 1-2-3 for some team three or four years down the line. The White Sox draft just blew me away.”

"The White Sox draft just blew me away."@jimcallisMLB reacted to what the White Sox accomplished this weekend. pic.twitter.com/WCAYBiNkrP

— 104.3 The Score (@thescorechicago) July 13, 2026

While there was some talk the White Sox could target another player at one, they stuck to their plan. Landing three players like the trio Callis mentioned could be something we look back on a few years from now in a very positive way.

Even with a promising shortstop, the White Sox are hoping Cholowsky will be right there in the middle of their lineup for years to come.

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Chicago White Sox rookie Munetaka Murakami has been one of the best stories in Major League Baseball this season. His efforts have helped the White Sox sit in first place in the AL Central at the MLB All-Star Break.

In 60 games, Murakami is hitting .232 but has 20 home runs with 49 hits and 42 RBI’s overall. He’s primed for a big season overall if he can keep this pace for the second half. He was also named an AL All-Star for the game in Philadelphia and also is participating in the Home Run Derby.

But before Murakami participated in the Home Run Derby on Monday, he made a very special announcement.

Munetaka Murakami officially joins Jordan Brand

As Murakami took the field on Monday night for the Home Run Derby, he did so sporting the Air Jordan 3 “True Blue” cleats. That’s because Murakami is now officially a Jordan Brand athlete.

The rookie signed a deal to be a Jordan Brand athlete, joining a talented MLB team. He’s the first White Sox player since Tim Anderson to be signed to Jordan Brand.

Chicago White Sox star Munetaka Murakami is signing a deal with Jordan Brand

Murakami will debut the “True Blue” Air Jordan 3 cleats at the MLB Home Run Derby pic.twitter.com/nFadv0vbeg

— Nice Kicks (@nicekicks) July 14, 2026

“Joining Jordan Brand is a dream come true,” Murakami said. “The Jumpman stands for greatness, confidence and pushing beyond limits — values that have inspired me throughout my career. To be part of a family that includes some of the world’s greatest athletes is an incredible honor, and I’m excited to represent Jordan Brand on the field and help grow the game of baseball for the next generation.”

As part of the deal, Murakami will sport Jordan Brand gear throughout the year. As we previously mentioned, he’s also wearing the Air Jordan 3 cleats which are set to release this weekend via Nike.

Murakami’s story is a fun one and now he’s joining a prominent brand headlined by a Chicago legend in Michael Jordan.

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One of the talking points about the Chicago White Sox potentially passing on Roch Cholowsky was that the UCLA shortstop was expected to land a hefty rookie deal.

The White Sox chose to draft Cholowsky with the No. 1 pick on Saturday and are set to pay him a record deal.

Per MLB.com, Chicago gave Cholowsky a signing bonus of $10.35 million, over $1 million more than the bonuses given by the Cincinnati Reds to Chase Burns and the Colorado Rockies to Charlie Condon in 2024.

Via the MLB:

“The No. 1 selection in this year’s MLB Draft, UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky, has passed his physical and will sign with the White Sox with a record-setting signing bonus of $10.35 million (the slot value for the pick was $11,350,600), a source told MLB Pipeline’s Jim Callis.

“Cholowsky’s bonus eclipses the $9.3 million bonuses given to Reds right-hander Chase Burns and Rockies outfield prospect Charlie Condon when they were drafted in 2024.”

More News: Grading the White Sox 5 day 1 2026 MLB Draft selections

Roch Cholowsky happy to be with Chicago White Sox

More News: White Sox 2025 All-Star could be back soon after latest milestone

After learning he was drafted by the White Sox, Cholowsky said he was excited to play for a contender in Chicago.

“It’s awesome,” he said. “I know I’m not going straight to the big leagues; there’s a lot of work that needs to be put in. But seeing how well the team at the top is doing and the moves they’re making, the way they’re playing, it’s definitely a lot more motivation to get up there and join those guys at some point.

“Being able to be part of a contender is pretty cool. I value winning a lot. Seeing what they’re doing up there for the first half of the season is pretty special.”

The White Sox won’t play Cholowsky, 21, during the regular season this year, at least not in the majors. However, there is a chance he could be called up into the big leagues by the end of the 2027 campaign.

Chicago is set to make a push for the postseason this year after a dramatic turnaround from the embarrassing 2024 and 2025 seasons. Cholowsky could be a part of a World Series push in the next few seasons with the White Sox.

And he’ll be paid handsomely for it.

For More Chicago Sports:

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The Chicago White Sox entered the All-Star break this week tied with the Cleveland Guardians for first place in the American League Central with a 50-45 record, 10 wins short of their total victories for the entire 2025 campaign.

Even if the White Sox don’t win the division, they’re set up well to make the Wild Card, though any postseason appearance would be stunning from a team that went 41-121 in 2024 and 60-102 in 2025.

To say the turnaround has been dramatic would be an understatement, though some around the MLB are curious if the White Sox are riding a fluke. With a win differential of plus-35, Chicago seems for real, though the team would benefit from adding help to their starting pitching rotation for the back half of the season.

The White Sox sent three players to the All-Star game this week: 3B Miguel Vargas, OF Tristan Peters, and 1B Munetaka Murakami.

Murakami told Ryan McGuffey of The REKAP that the White Sox intend to make a World Series push coming out of the All-Star break.

More News: White Sox 2025 All-Star could be back soon after latest milestone

Munetaka Murakami: Chicago White Sox can make World Series

More News: Grading the White Sox 5 day 1 2026 MLB Draft selections

“We’re not afraid of anything right now,” Murakami said. “We want to win, and we have that winning culture in our blood, so we’re going to look forward to going to the World Series, and that’s where we’re aiming right now. Nothing is surprising us at the moment.”

It might be a long shot, but the White Sox can’t be counted out of the World Series picture this summer. Chicago is one of only five AL teams with a winning record at the break.

The White Sox surprised the defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers in June by taking two games of a three-game series in Chicago.

The White Sox have been dominant at Rate Field, going 31-17 at home. Chicago will need to improve playing on the road to be a World Series threat. The White Sox are 19-28 during away games this season.

Even if the White Sox fail to make a deep push in the postseason, the team looks like it will contend for the MLB crown in the future, and their latest draft class could continue a dynasty.

For More Chicago Sports:

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The Chicago White Sox look like a completely different team in 2026 than they did just one year ago. Entering the All-Star break, they’re 50-45, tied for first place in the American League Central, and are sending three players to the Midsummer Classic: Munetaka Murakami, Tristan Peters, and Miguel Vargas.

The contrast to last season couldn’t be greater. At the same point in 2025, the White Sox were just 32-65, sitting in last place in the AL Central, with breakout rookie starter and Rule 5 Draft pick Shane Smith serving as the club’s lone All-Star.

That said, to begin the 2026 campaign, Smith got the nod as the teams Opening Day starter, but command issues and poor performance resulted in him being optioned to Triple-A. Then, in early May, he was placed on the injured list with a rotator cuff strain. Now halfway through July, he is back pitching again and seems to be nearing a return.

Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Shane Smith is one step closer to returning

Before landing on the injured list, Smith last appeared in a game on April 30. At that point, command was still an issue as through four minor league starts he had walked eight batters. After a two month absence between outings, he has returned looking sharp, both with the Winston-Salem Dash in High-A and Charlotte Knights in Triple-A.

Smith made two rehab appearances with High-A Winston-Salem on July 1 and July 7. As planned, he logged a combined 4.2 innings, allowing just two walks while recording six strikeouts, including a five-strikeout performance over 2.2 innings in his second outing.

He then returned to Triple-A on July 12, where he tossed 4.0 strong innings, walked one batter, and struck out five. He clearly has more building up to do in the pitch count area, but so far the results are promising that he has returned to All-Star form.

Shane Smith is fired up after a sharp start today. His first outing with the Knights since April 30th.

4 IP, 1 ER, 1 BB, & 5 K make up his final line.@KnightsBaseball #WhiteSox pic.twitter.com/OIy1W9soDA

— Kendall Smith (@SmithKendall__) July 12, 2026

If Smith is able to rejoin the White Sox this season, his upside could arguably slot him in as the club’s No. 2 or No. 3 starter behind Davis Martin. A healthy Smith returning to the form that earned him an All-Star selection would provide a significant boost to Chicago’s rotation as it pushes for a postseason berth.

Should the White Sox reach October, having Smith alongside Martin would give them a much stronger foundation for a playoff rotation and improve their chances of competing in a short series.

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The Chicago White Sox reached the MLB All-Star break 50-45 record, which has them tied for first place in the American League Central Division. Their record and level of play this season has been a surprise to many, who thought that the White Sox would, once again, be among the worst teams in Major League Baseball.

Instead, Chicago is one of just a handful of American League teams with a record over .500. What is more, for the first time in several years, they have more than one player representing them in the MLB All-Star Game.

Miguel Vargas was the only one named to the initial roster, but Munetaka Murakami and Tristan Peters have been added since.

Where Chicago White Sox slugger Munetaka Murakami ranks among Home Run Derby participants

In addition to being added to the American League All-Star roster as a replacement, Murakami accepted an invitation to participate in the Home Run Derby, which is being aired on Netflix on Monday night.

On Monday morning, MLB.com released its rankings of the eight sluggers who are participating in the event. Murakami, who is a rookie, was ranked fourth:

“There aren’t many players in baseball — in baseball history, really — who have hit moonshots quite like Murakami. And even if injuries have slowed him down in his rookie season, having him back and ready to go is a sign we’re about to see some of these impressive big flies launched into the Philadelphia night.

“It’s also excellent to see the White Sox — one of the best stories of the first half of the season — represented during All-Star Week as well. This is a team, and of course a player, that the world should see more of.”

As mentioned, Murakami is only just returning from injury, a strained hamstring that kept him out for over a month. At the time he went on the injured list, he led the American League with 20 home runs.

While he has not homered in the three games since his return, Murakami still ranks among the AL and MLB leaders in home runs.

Seeing him hit in the Home Run Derby is going to be very entertaining, especially for fans who have not been able to watch him consistently.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• Grading the 5 White Sox selections on Day 1 of the 2026 MLB Draft
• White Sox select Roch Cholowsky with 1st pick in 2026 MLB Draft
• Tristan Peters named to AL All-Star roster 1 day after hitting for the cycle

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox have made to the Major League Baseball 2026 All-Star break. Who could have thought, before the season, that at this point in the year, they would be tied for the lead in the American League Central Division and one of just a handful of AL teams with a winning record?

After three consecutive seasons with more than 100 losses, including the worst record in MLB history in 2024, Chicago has emerged from the cellar further along in their rebuild than many thought.

This is not to say they have been elite. There are plenty of issues the team still can and needs to fix. But the fact of the matter is that, even as they are, the White Sox are one of the best teams in the league.

MLB analyst puts haters on blast as Chicago White Sox maintain top-10 ranking

At 50-45, the White Sox are tied with the Cleveland Guardians atop the AL Central. They got swept by the Boston Red Sox last week, but bounced back to sweep the Athletics.

Bleacher Report ranked Chicago as the ninth-best team in Major League Baseball after the weekend, writing:

“The White Sox ended up stuck in the middle of two teams heading in polar opposite directions, contributing to both the nine-game winning streak of the Red Sox and the nine-game losing streak of the Athletics. Though he didn’t homer, Munetaka Murakami returned for the latter, more encouraging series, which began with a 14-1 win fueled by Tristan Peters hitting for the cycle.

“If you’ve been waiting for this team to fade, here’s hoping you haven’t been holding your breath.”

Indeed, every time it has appeared that the White Sox were going to come down to earth, they have been able to bounced back. Now with Munetaka Murakami back, their offense is even more dangerous.

If they are able to land a stellar pitcher or two at the MLB trade deadline, they could be a force in the AL for the rest of the season.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• Grading the 5 White Sox selections on Day 1 of the 2026 MLB Draft
• White Sox select Roch Cholowsky with 1st pick in 2026 MLB Draft
• Tristan Peters named to AL All-Star roster 1 day after hitting for the cycle

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox had five selections during day one of the 2026 MLB Draft. This includes four selections in the top 100, featuring No.1 overall, No. 34, which was a Competitive Balance Round-A pick recently acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates in the Jacob Gonzalez trade, No.41, and No.77. Their lone selection outside of the top 100 came in the fourth round, at No.105.

Later today, July 12, the remaining rounds in MLB’s draft, rounds 5-20, will take place. However, here we evaluate each of the five selections from day one.

Grading the Chicago White Sox five day one 2026 MLB Draft selections

No.1 (Round 1): Roch Cholowsky, SS, UCLA

To little surprise, Roch Cholowsky was taken first overall by the White Sox. Cholowsky is viewed as a generational five tool talent, evidenced by his standout performances across three years at UCLA. Over his college career, he posted a 1.072 OPS, walked (105) more times than he struck out (100), and has two 20+ home runs seasons. This, combined with the fact he is expected to sign under the $11,350,600 slot value gives this selection an A+ grade.

No. 34 (Comp Balance A): Landon Thome, INF, Nazareth Academy

Landon Thome is the son of Hall of Famer Jim Thome, who spent the 2006-2009 seasons as a member of the White Sox. Although MLB Pipeline gifts Thome a 55 grade power, something his father was known for as he hit 612 home runs throughout his career, the left-handed hitter had just seven home runs his senior season. Rather, Thome stole 49 bases last High School season, so how his speed translates to the professional game will be worth monitoring. ESPN had Thome ranked No.67 on their pre-draft rankings, and he’ll likely sign close to slot value, giving this selection an overall grade of an A-, especially given he comes from a baseball family.

No. 41 (Round 2): Cole Prosek, INF, Magnolia Heights HS

Cole Prosek is the third infielder selected by the White Sox to begin the 2026 MLB Draft. The Mississippi standout was ranked No.27 on MLB Pipeline’s pre-draft rankings. His hit tool is his calling card, along with power, as he hit 18 home runs over 41 games his senior year at Mangolia Heights. This school also produced Cooper Pratt, who recently made his MLB Debut with the Milwaukee Brewers. Getting Porsek at No.41 could be a major steal for Chicago, giving this pick an A grade.

No. 77 (Round 3): Joey Volchko, P, Georgia

After having ERA’s in the five’s and sixes through two years at Standford, right-hander Joey Volchko found more success in 2026 at Georgia. Over 18 starts he posted a 3.68 ERA and struck out 119 batters over 95 innings pitched. MLB Pipeline gave him a 60-grade fastball and slider, giving him two plus pitches to work with. This pick isn’t a home run, but there are good traits for Chicago to work with. This pick earns a B – for grade.

No. 105 (Round 4): Eric Segura, P, Oregon State

Eric Seguara is a sinker baller from Oregon State who throws a ton of strikes. The right-hander walked just 27 batters in 2026, posting 3.3 B:9 ratio. He has some swing and miss in his game. Segura struck out 82 batters over 73 innings this year, while posting a nice 2.22 ERA. Chicago figures to have a strong infield for years to come, thus making Segura a good fit in this organization. We give this a grade of a B for the White Sox.

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The Chicago White Sox are 48-45 this season, and in first place in the American League Central Division. Despite how well they have played this year, their losing season in 2025 (their third straight with 100+ losses) led to them having the first overall pick in the 2026 MLB amateur draft.

In the weeks leading up to today’s first round, the White Sox were uncertain which player they would take with the number one overall pick. There were, of course, several quality candidates. And on Saturday, they took Roch Cholowsky, a shortstop from UCLA.

The Chicago White Sox draft Roch Cholowsky first overall

Cholowsky, 21, played three seasons at UCLA where he hit ..329/.448/.624. He has been especially notable in the last two years. In 2025, he hit .353/.480/.710 with 23 home runs and 74 RBI. He also walked (45 times) more than he struck out (30 times).

This past season, Cholowsky hit .320/.452/.636 with 21 home runs and 60 RBI. He walked just as much as he struck out (36 times a piece).

Jeff Passan was the first to report that the White Sox had selected the UCLA product:

The Chicago White Sox are choosing UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky with the No. 1 pick in the MLB Draft, sources tell ESPN.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) July 11, 2026

After the pick was made, Bob Nightengale reported on X that Chicago decided to draft Cholowsky after he agreed to sign for a lesser slot amount. The White Sox hope to use the savings to sign Landon Thome, the son of franchise legend and Hall of Famer Jim Thome:

The White Sox chose Cholowsky after he agreed to below slot signing in which the Sox would love to use the savings to draft Landon Thome, son of Hall of Famer Jim Thome https://t.co/e3ZyVg6P3A

— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) July 11, 2026

Thome, who plays second and third base, is considered one of the best overall high school hitters in this year’s class.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox acquire lefty and draft pick in trade with Pirates
• White Sox announce roster move for return of Munetaka Murakami
• White Sox first half MVP revealed in latest MLB power rankings

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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Last year, the Chicago White Sox were the worst team in Major League Baseball. As such, they only had one player named to the 2025 All-Star Game, starter Shane Smith. Now Smith is not even in the Majors and the White Sox are suddenly one of the better teams in the American League.

Despite how much they have turned it around in 2026, Chicago once again had just one player named to the AL All-Star roster: Miguel Vargas.

On Friday, when he returned from the injured list, Munetaka Murakami was named as a replacement All-Star player. He also accepted an invitation to participate in the Home Run Derby.

And now, the White Sox have a third All-Star.

Chicago White Sox outfielder Tristan Peters has been named to the 2026 MLB All-Star Game

On Saturday morning, it was announced that Tristan Peters, too, has been named as a replacement All-Star for the American League:

Hit for the cycle one day, named an All-Star the next. Congrats, Tristan! pic.twitter.com/CHDBTr8acO

— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) July 11, 2026

On Friday night, Peters became the seventh player in franchise history to hit for the cycle. He became the first rookie in the history of Major League Baseball to accomplish the feat while hitting from the ninth spot in a lineup.

For the season, Peters is hitting .303/.357/.484 with six home runs, 35 RBI, and five stolen bases.

This is the first time since 2022 that Chicago has multiple All-Stars. That year, they were represented by Tim Anderson and Liam Hendricks. It is also the first time they have had more than two All-Stars since 2021, when they sent four players to All-Star Game. Those players were Anderson, Hendricks, Lance Lynn, and Carlos Rodon.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox acquire lefty and draft pick in trade with Pirates
• White Sox announce roster move for return of Munetaka Murakami
• White Sox first half MVP revealed in latest MLB power rankings

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox are 48-45 so far in the 2026 MLB season. Prior to the start of the year, many believed that they would, once again, be one of the worst teams in the American League. After all, they had lost more than 100 games in three consecutive seasons, and they decided to rely on their young group of players to carry them this year.

As it has turned out, that was a great decision by the club. Chicago is just one of a handful of American League teams over .500. They also sit in first place in the AL Central, though the Cleveland Guardians are right at their heels.

As the MLB trade deadline draws closer, there are a plethora of rumors surrounding the White Sox and who they may try to acquire. ESPN analyst Jeff Passan has identified the one player they should target.

Reid Detmers named as the dream trade target for the Chicago White Sox

Recently, Passan published an article in which he listed the dream trade target for each MLB time. When it came to the White Sox, he named Los Angeles Angels pitcher Reid Detmers as not only their dream target, but also the best fit:

“Detmers, the 27-year-old who isn’t a free agent until after the 2028 season, is an ideal fit. Don’t let his 4.13 ERA fool you. The stuff is premium, the strikeouts are plentiful and the ability to carve good lineups is vital for any potential White Sox playoff run.”

What is also appealing about adding Detmers is that he is not going to be a free agent until 2029. That means the White Sox would not be getting him as a rental, but as a long(ish)-term piece for their starting rotation.

At the same time, though, his multiple years of club control remaining mean that he may cost a little bit more on the trade market in terms of prospects.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox acquire lefty and draft pick in trade with Pirates
• White Sox announce roster move for return of Munetaka Murakami
• White Sox first half MVP revealed in latest MLB power rankings

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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Friday night saw the Chicago White Sox return to their winning ways. After being swept by the Boston Red Sox during the week, they exercised some demons by demolishing the Athletics by the score of 14-1.

The game marked the return of Munetaka Murakami after over a month spent on the injured list. He had previously suffered a strained hamstring in late May. He was 1-5 with an RBI and run scored in his return.

But the star of the night was rookie centerfielder Tristan Peters, who did something never before seen in the history of Major League Baseball.

Chicago White Sox rookie Tristan Peters made MLB history

Peters went 4-4 on Friday night. He hit for the cycle with those four hits, which is an impressive feat in and of itself. But what made his performance historic is that no rookie hitting ninth in the batting order had ever done that:

Tonight marks the first time in MLB history a rookie batting 9th in the order (Tristan Peters) hit for the cycle. pic.twitter.com/QPqSwHPbA8

— OptaSTATS (@OptaSTATS) July 11, 2026

Peters is now hitting .303/.357/.484 with six home runs, 45 RBI, and five stolen bases this season. He is the seventh player in White Sox history to hit for the cycle, and the first since Jose Abreu did it back in 2017.

Every other player who hit for the cycle in franchise history did so between 1901-1922.

• Fielder Jones (1901)
• Harry Lord (1913)
• Danny Murphy (1920)
• Nemo Leiobold (1921)
• Ray Schalk (1922)

Peters’ contract was purchased by Chicago in December of 2025 from the Tampa Bay Rays, who had previously acquired him via trade from the San Francisco Giants. They had received him a trade from the Milwaukee Brewers, who originally drafted him in the seventh round of the 2021 MLB amatuer draft.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox acquire lefty and draft pick in trade with Pirates
• White Sox announce roster move for return of Munetaka Murakami
• White Sox first half MVP revealed in latest MLB power rankings

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox are getting an early start on trades before the Aug. 3 trade deadline, making a deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Per the Pirates, they had acquired infielder Jacob Gonzalez and left-hander Brandon Eisert in exchange for a 2026 Comp A Pick (which is the No. 34th pick in this year’s draft) and left-hander Jaden Woods. The Pirates were reported to be open to moving their Comp A Pick and prospects to acquire talent.

More White Sox News: Chicago White Sox announce roster move for the return of Munetaka Murakami

The deal for the Pirates accomplishes their goal of filling two needs: finding bullpen help and a versatile infielder. Gonzalez had shown signs of life while spending 30 games with the White Sox, filling in for the injured All-Star, Munetaka Murakami.

We have made the following trade with the @whitesox: pic.twitter.com/addnYX8Jvk

— Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) July 11, 2026

The Pittsburgh Pirates will get great use out of Jacob Gonzalez and Brandon Eisert

The White Sox optioned the 24-year-old to Triple-A Charlotte once Murakami was activated from the injured list on Friday. But he will likely be joining the Pirates’ big-league roster, given some of their injuries. In his first 30 games, Gonzalez batted .244 with a .683 OPS and two home runs, but showed great strides in the minor leagues, having a 1.097 OPS and 19 home runs in 53 games at Triple-A Charlotte.

Shortstop Konnor Griffin will be out until September, as he recovers from a finger injury after making a diving play, while first baseman Spencer Horwitz (left hamstring strain) could return soon. A primary shortstop and third baseman, Gonzalez mostly played as the White Sox’s first baseman (29 games).

Current fill-in Jared Triolo has been struggling to hold things down at shortstop, so Gonzalez should figure to take over for Triolo. Gonzalez should also see time at first base until Horwitz returns to action.

As for Eisert, he should get good usage in the Pirates’ bullpen, as they have not been great this season. Eisert joins a bullpen that has the fourth-worst ERA (4.53) and fifth-worst WHIP (1.40) in the National League.

Did the Chicago White Sox get value in this trade?

Yes, the White Sox did well in this trade, despite the price they paid. Woods, 24, is an interesting arm who could be used in the bullpen if the White Sox chose to call him up this season.

Drafted by the Pirates in the seventh round of the 2023 MLB Draft, Woods quickly ascended through the minor leagues. In 28 appearances between Double-A Altoona and Triple-A Indianapolis, Woods is 3-2 with a 4.58 ERA. However, he has not been great since his call-up to Triple-A, posting a 7.71 ERA in 11 games (one start).

The real prize is the Comp A Pick, which now gives the White Sox two picks in the first round. Already holding the first overall pick, they could use their 34th-overall selection to land a starting pitcher for the future. The Draft is scheduled for July 11 and will start at 1 p.m. Eastern.

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The Chicago White Sox are 47-45 on the season and, somehow, still remain in first place in the American League Central Division. Indeed, they are one of the best stories in baseball this season. After three straight years of losing 100+ games, they are suddenly one of just a handful of American League teams with a winning record.

They have, however, been struggling as of late. Chicago just got swept by the Boston Red Sox and have lost six of their last eight games. Fortunately, Munetaka Murakami, their prized rookie slugger, is returning from the injured list today.

The Chicago White Sox activate Munetaka Murakami from the injured list

Back on May 29, Murakami was removed for the White Sox game with an injured hamstring. It was revealed afterwards that he had strained it, and he was placed on the 10-day injured list.

After completing his rehab assignment this week, Munetaka is returning to Chicago’s lineup for their final series before the All-Star break. To make room for him on the roster, the White Sox are sending Jacob Gonzalez back to Triple-A:

pic.twitter.com/rvORkeqMMJ

— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) July 10, 2026

In 30 games played this season after getting called up, Gonzalez hit .244/.323/.360 with two home runs and 16 RBI.

Prior to going on the injured list, Murakami hit .240/.378/.560 with 20 home runs and 41 RBI. When he first went on IL, he was the AL leader in home runs and near the top of the league’s leader board in walks.

Adding the Japanese slugger, whom they surprisingly signed this off-season to a two-year $34 million deal, will give the White Sox yet another 20-home run hitter in their lineup. Both Miguel Vargas and Colson Montgomery have reached that plateau since Murakami went on IL.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• Munetaka Murakami set to return to White Sox lineup for final series before All-Star break
• White Sox leapfrog New York Yankees in latest MLB power rankings
• White Sox urged to trade for 8x All-Star ahead of MLB trade deadline

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox have hit a bit of a rough stretch. They just got swept by the Boston Red Sox and have lost six of their last eight games. Still, they are 47-45 and sit in first place of the American League Central Division. Indeed, their recent struggles should not overshadow all they have been able to accomplish so far in 2026.

After three consecutive seasons of losing more than 100 games a year, the White Sox are suddenly competitive, just one of a handful of American League teams with a winning record. Numerous players have played a role in their early success, but Fox Sports believes Miguel Vargas is the most valuable.

Miguel Vargas named the Chicago White Sox MVP of the 1st half

Coming into 2026, no one thought Chicago was going to be any good. Vargas, for his part, had never hit more than 16 home runs in a single season.

As the first half of the year comes to a close, though, the White Sox are 47-45 and Vargas is hitting .239/.354/.477 with 20 home runs and 56 RBI (he also has 11 stolen bases).

He is the lone White Sox All-Star this season, and Fox Sports believes he is more than deserving of that honor. While ranking Chicago as the ninth-best team in Major League Baseball, they said of Vargas:

“Similar to the Pirates, I’m shocked the White Sox only got one All-Star rep (sorry, Davis Martin and Colson Montgomery). But if Miguel Vargas is the only player the South Siders send to the All-Star Game, he’s at least a worthy choice. The former Dodgers prospect is putting it all together offensively at 26 years old, trailing only Junior Caminero for the highest OPS among AL third basemen.”

In addition to providing some pop at the plate, Vargas has played good defense at third base and has filled in a bit over at first.

Should he continue to put up big power numbers, and should the White Sox remain in contention, he could get some American League MVP votes as well.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• Munetaka Murakami set to return to White Sox lineup for final series before All-Star break
• White Sox leapfrog New York Yankees in latest MLB power rankings
• White Sox urged to trade for 8x All-Star ahead of MLB trade deadline

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox have been given a major bolt of hope before the 2026 All Star break.

More news: Chicago White Sox advised approach to MLB trade deadline revealed

Following a rehab stint in Charlotte, it has been officially confirmed that Japanese rookie sensation Munetaka Murakami will indeed be returning to the Sox clubhouse on Friday.

The Chicago White Sox star slugger is expected to play in Friday’s series opener vs the Athletics

Scott Merkin confirmed the news following the Sox’s rough 2-1 loss to the Boston Red Sox. The Sox have now dropped three straight and remain tied with Cleveland for the AL Central lead.

Murakami officially back on Friday

— Scott Merkin (@scottmerkin) July 9, 2026

Manager Will Venable told the media that the Japanese star “feels good and is ready to go” during Thursday’s presser.

https://Twitter.com/CHSN_WhiteSox/status/2075325527917834444/video/1?

Despite missing 35 games with a hamstring strain, Murakami still has the 14th most home runs in the MLB, with 20.

With the southsiders in a rough patch, this is the perfect time for Murakami to be back in the clubhouse.

It’s obvious that the team could use his power in the bat as the team has only scored three runs in their last three games. Hopefully, Mune can bring the team the spark it needs at the halfway point of the season.

The post Munetaka Murakami officially to return to Chicago White Sox lineup for final series before All Star Break appeared first on ChiCitySports.

There may be no better story in baseball right now than the 2026 Chicago White Sox. After years of historical futility, Chicago is currently 47-42 and sits atop the American League Central Division. Part of the reason for their surprising success this year has been how quickly their young core has acclimated to the Major Leagues.

While the season is over halfway through, it is still considered early given the fact that they play 162 games. There is still a possibility that the young White Sox will come down to earth at some point in the year.

Thus far, though, they have not, and are getting the recognition they deserve.

The Chicago White Sox jump to 8th in Bleacher Report’s MLB power rankings

For weeks, the White Sox did not get the recognition they deserved from national outlets when they released their power rankings. Perhaps it was because they thought Chicago would come back down to earth. Since they have not, and it is now July, the White Sox are starting to climb higher and higher.

On Monday, Bleacher Report released their weekly MLB power rankings, and slid Chicago in at eighth, one spot over the struggling New York Yankees:

“Colson Montgomery hit his 22nd home run on Saturday and his team-leading 23rd on Sunday. On Monday, Munetaka Murakami will begin a rehab assignment. Big stretch of three days for two of the biggest snubs from the initial All-Star rosters. Those two and Miguel Vargas make the White Sox the only team thus far with three players with at least 20 home runs.”

One of the biggest surprises for the White Sox this year has been the power of Miguel Vargas, who already has surpassed his previous career high. And not only does Colson Montgomery lead the team in home runs, but he also leads all Major League shortstops.

Oh, and Munetaka Murakami could be back as early as this week.

Needless to say, things are looking good on the South Side.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox announced exciting positive injury update on Munetaka Murakami
• White Sox suggest the Guardians were cheating
• White Sox receive frustrating MLB trade deadline update

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox are 47-42 on the season and sit atop the American League Central Division. This is a development that, truly, no one saw coming prior to the 2026 season. After losing 100+ games in three consecutive years, many believed the White Sox would have another poor showing.

However, the team’s young core of prospects that now have found themselves in the Majors have made Chicago one of the most entertaining teams in baseball, and one of the best teams in the American League.

That being said, they still have fixes to make, namely in the bullpen, if they are going maintain this surprising division lead.

The Chicago White Sox are urged to trade for eight-time All-Star Aroldis Chapman

There are of course, many teams that are going to be looking to add some high-quality bullpen depth at the MLB trade deadline. Additionally, there is no shortage of such arms that will be made available.

Among these is Aroldis Chapman of the Boston Red Sox, whom The Athletic claims should be the top target of the White Sox as the deadline draws near:

“I think they should target both Aroldis Chapman and Sonny Gray of the Red Sox, but should be willing to consider all possibilities, including an in-division trade with the Royals. The White Sox trading a bat for either Michael Wacha or Seth Lugo could make sense for both teams.

Best fit: Aroldis Chapman, LHP, Boston Red Sox

“Chapman would become their lockdown closer and give them a much better shot at reaching the postseason and being competitive once there.”

An eight-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion, Chapman has been one of the few bright spots on what has turned out to be a disappointing Red Sox team. He is currently 0-3 with a 2.36 ERA and 18 saves so far in 2026.

Chapman will be a free agent at the end of the year, which means that he would only be a rental in Chicago if they were to acquire him. Three months of the Hall of Fame-caliber closer may not be worth the prospects they would need to give up to get him.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox announced exciting positive injury update on Munetaka Murakami
• White Sox suggest the Guardians were cheating
• White Sox receive frustrating MLB trade deadline update

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago  sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox are 46-42 on the season, and currently tied atop that American League Central Division with the rival Cleveland Guardians. After winning their game on Saturday, the White Sox reclaimed a tie for first place, and hold the tiebreaker over their rivals. The outcomes of Sunday’s game will determine who enters the new week of play in the AL Central lead.

It really is astounding that Chicago is in this position at this point in the season. Prior to the start of the year, no one thought they were anywhere close to contending for a postseason spot. And when Munetaka Murakmi went down with a hamstring strain, the belief was that their early winning ways would come to an end without him.

Chicago White Sox slugger Munetaka Murakami is close to returning

After the White Sox got off to a strong start to the season, Murakami received a great deal of credit for propelling the team to victory. When he went down, many thought that they were not going to be able to keep pace in the American League Central.

But they have. What is more, they gained ground on Cleveland and ended up overtaking them in the standings. And now, Murakami is nearing his return:

Munetaka Murakami is supposed to run today and if all goes well, he will travel to @KnightsBaseball Monday for injury rehab. Could rejoin the White Sox at some point this week if all goes well.

— Scott Merkin (@scottmerkin) July 5, 2026

As one can see from the post above, if Murakami responds well to running today, he will head out on a rehab assignment. At that point, it would only be a matter of days until he is able to return to Chicago’s lineup.

In 57 games played this season, Murakami is hitting .240/.378/.560 with 20 home runs and 41 RBI.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox suggest the Guardians may have cheated
• White Sox receive frustrating MLB trade deadline update from insider
• White Sox advised approach to MLB trade deadline revealed

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox took a brief 3-1 lead in the top of the fifth inning via a three-run homer by Miguel Vargas with two outs in wet conditions on Friday night.

Then came a rain delay that was full of controversy.

While rain had been falling during Vargas’ at-bat, umpires called for the tarp to come out following the home run.

The delay caused the White Sox to pull starting pitcher Anthony Kay before the bottom of the fifth inning. He gave up one earned run and one hit in four innings pitched. He told reporters after the game that he was hoping to pitch at least two more innings and felt like the two teams could have played another 20 to 30 minutes in what he called “light rain.”

Kay felt the way Cleveland brought out the tarp showed poor gamesmanship.

“But the second that Vargas hits that home run, they pull the tarp,” Kay said, via the Chicago Sun-Times. “So there definitely was some bull— on their part to get me out of the game. It’s pretty messed up for them to do something like that and get me out of the game that way.”

“I stayed in the dugout for probably 15 more minutes. We played through it up until Vargas hit the homer. I don’t even think he was finished rounding the bases when they pulled the tarp out. So there was definitely some gamesmanship, and I don’t think it was right for them to do that.”

More News: White Sox receive frustrating MLB trade deadline update as July begins

Chicago White Sox unhappy with Guardians ground crew

More News: Chicago White Sox advised approach to MLB trade deadline revealed

But the tarp came out via the umpires’ decision, which wasn’t the fault of the Guardians. Still, White Sox manager Will Venable didn’t appreciate how the Guardians’ ground crew dumped water in the outfield.

“With Colson (Montgomery), just deep into the grass there, wasn’t able to stop that ball from getting by him,” Venable said. “And then (Sam Antonacci), that’s where they dumped all the water. It was a mess out there. He’s coming in hard trying to make a play, and it just got by him.”

The Guardians tied the game at 3-3 in the seventh inning thanks to hits into a sloppy-looking outfield that Montgomery and Antonacci had a hard time fielding in the wet conditions.

Cleveland wound up winning the game 4-3 in front of 33,646 fans at Progressive Field. In the midst of a three-game losing streak for Chicago, the Guardians now have a one-game lead in the AL Central before the two teams play on Saturday night.

No doubt, the White Sox will have some extra motivation to beat Cleveland on Saturday night and Sunday to end the critical four-game series.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, For more on the NCAA, head to Newsweek Sports.Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox have been one of the most intriguing team in all of baseball this season. Just about everyone felt they would once again be in the basement of the AL Central heading into 2026, but instead, they are in first place past the halfway point.

So, it begs the question: what exactly will the White Sox do at the MLB trade deadline?

Will Chicago buy to continue its playoff push and to perhaps make an attempt at a deep October run? Will it sell off some pieces to focus on the future? Or will it mostly stand pat?

General manager Chris Getz has not really played his hand just yet, which makes perfect sense. You don’t want other teams to know your strategy, and to be quite frank, Getz himself probably doesn’t know for sure what to do just yet.

The next four weeks will surely determine the White Sox’s path, and Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter has provided an update for the team as far as their trade deadline plans are concerned.

Chicago White Sox’s MLB trade deadline plans land update

July has officially begun, and with the trade deadline on Aug. 3, things are beginning to take shape.

However, Chicago is still in limbo as far as what its decision will be at the deadline, and Reuter seems to think the White Sox are either one big winning streak or one big losing streak away from coming to a consensus.

“The White Sox have arrived sooner than expected, so the question now is whether they start pushing chips in for short-term upgrades or continue to focus on building something sustainable for the long term,” Reuter wrote.

Of course, with Chicago being at the top of the AL Central and the second-place Cleveland Guardians showing very little sign of making a major run, it would be hard to market a sell-off to your fanbase in the coming weeks.

White Sox fans have been starving for success, and now, they’re finally getting a taste of it. It wouldn’t be a good look for Chicago move some key veterans in order to continue positioning itself for the long haul. But at the same time, can the South Siders risk mortgaging their future just for a pie-in-the-sky shot at a World Series this year?

We’ll see what the White Sox decide to do in the coming weeks.

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Prior to the start of the 2026 MLB season, no one thought that the Chicago White Sox were going be very good. After all, they had lost over 100 games in each of the previous three seasons. In 2024, they set the Major League record with 121 losses in a single season.

All fans hoped for was a step forward, signs that, someday, the White Sox could be a competitive baseball team again. And to their surprise, they not only got that, but they are watching a team that currently is tied for first place in the American League Central Division.

Chicago White Sox urged to take a conservative approach to the MLB trade deadline

Last week, ESPN had the White Sox slotted in the top-ten of their MLB power rankings. After a rough week, though, they have now been dropped down to 12th:

“The White Sox’s feel-good first half teetered a bit when they dropped five of six during a tough road trip against the Yankees and Tigers. While the young Sox remain well-positioned in the soft AL Central, it’s too soon to know if they’ll be in position to add at the deadline.

“One thing that has marked this Chicago squad has been the number of successful promotions of internally developed prospects they’ve seen this season. And seemingly, the younger the White Sox have gotten, the better they’ve played. As long as this keeps up, a conservative deadline approach might end up being the best bet for the short and long term.”

As one can see, the explanation for the ranking is actually filled with praise for Chicago’s young talent and the prospects they are still developing.

Due to these things, the White Sox are advised to take a conservative approach at the MLB trade deadline. Instead of trading prospects that can help them both now and in the future, they should try to acquire players whose price tags are not as steep.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• The White Sox should avoid this one All-Star at MLB trade deadline
• White Sox predicted to land 1x All-Star at MLB trade deadline
• White Sox trade deadline plans just took an unfortunate turn

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox just took two out of three from the Cleveland Guardians to retake the lead in the AL Central, and given that Jose Ramirez is sidelined for the foreseeable future, the division could be theirs to lose.

Of course, the White Sox definitely need to patch up some holes between now and the MLB trade deadline if they want to truly separate themselves, and perhaps their primary issue of concern is their thin starting rotation.

Beyond Davis Martin and Sean Burke, Chicago’s pitching staff is very limited. The White Sox’s starters own a 4.37 ERA, and they really don’t even have any definitive answers after Martin, Burke and Anthony Kay. Noah Schultz is currently rehabbing from a knee injury that has kept him sidelined since last month, but he has a 5.82 ERA through eight starts.

Chicago wasn’t expected to be a buyer heading into the 2026 campaign, but now, it’s looking more and more like the South Siders might get aggressive. They could use some more offense, as well, but adding another starting pitcher should be the main priority.

There is one arm, however, that the White Sox should should absolutely avoid: New York Mets right-hander Freddy Peralta.

Chicago White Sox should steer clear of Freddy Peralta

The Mets acquired Peralta from the Milwaukee Brewers during the offseason, hoping that the two-time All-Star would lead their pitching staff.

Instead, Peralta has logged a 4.83 ERA across his first 16 starts, and while that number is definitely a bit inflated from his most recent start when he surrendered 10 earned runs against the Philadelphia Phillies, it wasn’t like he was pitching all that well at any point this season.

The 30-year-old owns a 4.32 FIP and 1.389 WHIP. His strikeout rate (8.7 K/9) has absolutely plummeted and is well below his career average of 10.9 punchouts per nine innings. What’s more, he is an impending free agent who will probably get overpaid next winter.

Chicago absolutely cannot afford to part with substantial prospect capital to land a struggling pitcher who will simply walk after the season. Yes, there is no question that Peralta’s price tag has dropped, but you can bet that there will still be somewhat of a bidding war for the Dominican native given the fact that he posted a 2.70 ERA last year.

The White Sox should stay far away from Peralta and explore more affordable options, preferably ones still under club control.

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The Chicago White Sox finished the 2024 MLB season 41-121. It was the worst season in Major League history, and a true rock bottom for one of baseball’s oldest franchises. Now, in 2026, they are 41-37 and, to the surprise of just about everyone, in first place of the American League Central Division.

Indeed, it certainly seems that, as the season approaches its halfway point, the White Sox are serious contenders for a spot in the postseason. That being said, they are far from a perfect team and will need to make some improvements in order to seriously make some noise.

The area with the most obvious room for improvement is their starting pitching.

The Chicago White Sox are predicted to trade for Seth Lugo

For years, the White Sox have been sellers at the deadline. They have traded away several former players for prospects and young talent, some of whom are currently contributing to their rebirth this season.

Now, though, Chicago needs to take on the role of buyers, and Bleacher Report predicts that Seth Lugo will be a starting pitcher they attain ahead of the trade deadline:

“It’s a nice season the White Sox are having, but their starting rotation is threatening to undo it. It ranks dead-last in innings for the season, and it has a 6.71 ERA in June. A horse like Lugo is therefore a perfect target on paper.

“Lugo is signed through 2027 with a club option for 2028, which is ideal for a White Sox club that is still early in its contention cycle. Even if it means upgrading an AL Central rival’s farm, he’s worth a lesser bat like Colby Shelton (No. 9) or Javier Mogollon (No. 10).”

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox trade deadline plans just took an unfortunate turn
• White Sox trade proposal nets breakout start to solve growing problem
• White Sox make a change behind the plate

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox appear to be the cream of the crop in the AL Central, as they just took the first two games of a three-game series against the Cleveland Guardians to grab a two-game lead over the Guardians in the loss column for first place in the division.

However, even with the White Sox sitting at 41-37 and firmly in playoff contention, it’s clear this team has significant problems that need to be addressed.

The most glaring of all is Chicago’s starting rotation, which has incredibly limited depth beyond Davis Martin and Sean Burke and doesn’t have any immediate internal answers. As a result, the White Sox are expected to pursue starting pitching before the MLB trade deadline, but will they actually be able to land anyone?

Two names that were floated as possibilities for Chicago were Los Angeles Angels pitchers Reid Detmers and Jose Soriano given the fact that the Angels are essentially out of the playoff race at this point, but Bob Nightengale of USA TODAY has revealed some rough news for the South Siders on that front.

Apparently, the Angels won’t be moving either hurler.

Chicago White Sox receive bad MLB trade deadline news

Nightengale has reported that Los Angeles does not seem to be in any rush to move some of its more desirable pieces between now and Aug. 3.

“The Los Angeles Angels also plan to retain their key players at the deadline with owner Arte Moreno not wanting to unload starters Reid Detmers and Jose Soriano, or outfielder Jo Adell. Detmers and Soriano still are under team control through 2028, while Adell is eligible for free agency after the 2027 season,” Nightengale wrote.

Detmers had been linked to the White Sox numerous times in recent weeks, featuring a strong profile in terms of strikeouts and underlying metrics that had many teams interested in the left-hander. Soriano, meanwhile, leads the league with 46 walks, but owns a 3.03 ERA and boasts a 138 ERA+.

Of course, it’s still possible that the Angels have a change of heart in the coming weeks, and it’s entirely possible they are just trying to gain leverage in trade talks by pretending that neither pitcher is available. But whether or not Chicago would want to pay such an exorbitant price for either arm is the question.

The White Sox definitely have assets in their farm system, but they may decide not to mortgage the future just because they are a year or two ahead of schedule.

We’ll see if Chicago does decide to make a push to improve its starting rotation as we inch closer and closer to the deadline.

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The Chicago White Sox are somehow contenders this season, which I don’t even think the White Sox themselves anticipated. But that doesn’t mean the team doesn’t have significant problems that must be prepared before the MLB trade deadline.

Chicago needs to fix its starting rotation, and it could also use another bat in a lineup that is very top-heavy. Not only that, but the White Sox could stand to improve a bullpen that ranks 19th in baseball in ERA and 26th in win probability added.

Seranthony Dominguez has been a significant problem in the closer role, so Chicago will need to find a solution between now and Aug. 3 if it wants to make a serious playoff push this year.

Of course, elite closers don’t just grow on trees, and the cost to acquire them is typically steep. The White Sox surely don’t want to break the bank for a relief pitcher this summer, so they may try to explore some more affordable options.

Andrew Apostolakis of Southside Showdown has identified an intriguing trade target in that regard: Colorado Rockies right-hander Antonio Senzatela.

Chicago White Sox linked to trade for Antonio Senzatela

Senzatela was converted into a full-time reliever this year and has experienced considerable success, pitching to the tune of a 2.23 ERA. And while he’s making decent money this season and in 2027, Apostolakis feels that will diminish the cost in a potential deal.

“He currently owns a 2.23 ERA and a 1.07 WHIP. He only has three saves because his appearances in the ninth inning have been rare, but he’s still been incredibly effective in the role he’s been given. Senzatela is owed $12 million this season and has a $14 million option for 2027, so he’s a bit on the expensive side, but that should make him fairly cheap to acquire in terms of prospect cost,” Apostolakis wrote.

Senzatela entered the big leagues with the Rockies in 2017 and has actually spent his entire career there, laying claim to a 5.04 ERA and 1.491 WHIP. Keep in mind, though, that those numbers came as a starter. He seems much more comfortable in a bullpen role this season, so perhaps the 31-year-old has found new life.

The White Sox have one of the lowest payrolls in baseball, so they can afford to take on Senzatela’s money. The question is whether or not they would actually want to trade anything for a pitcher who had been subpar for the first nine years of his career.

If Chicago wants to make the playoffs, though, it will have to take some risks, and acquiring Senzatela could be one of them.

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After catcher Edgar Quero struggled to hold onto the starting catcher’s job this season, the Chicago White Sox are opting to make a change.

In a team announcement released on Monday morning, the White Sox have reinstated catcher Kyle Teel (right hamstring strain) from the 60-day injured list, while optioning Quero to Triple-A Charlotte. Teel had not appeared in a game for the White Sox all season after injuring his hamstring playing for Italy in the World Baseball Classic.

More White Sox News: Chicago White Sox linked to trade for slugger with elite trait

During his rehab assignment in Charlotte, Teel tore the cover off the baseball, batting .387 with a 1.054 OPS, mashing two home runs and driving in six RBI in eight games. Teel was a favorite to be the White Sox’s starting catcher this season, after putting together a solid rookie campaign last season. Teel batted .273 with a .786 OPS, eight home runs, 11 doubles and 35 RBI.

pic.twitter.com/8lsYPQJvEW

— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) June 22, 2026

Kyle Teel will likely be the Chicago White Sox’s starting catcher moving forward

Quero had every opportunity to take the starting catching job and run with it, but he failed. In 55 games, the 23-year-old batted .187 with a .486 OPS and two home runs, while striking out 41 times in 150 at-bats. Quero’s poor performance led manager Will Venable to platoon him with Drew Romo, who has also not performed, other than hitting for power. Romo batted .144 with five home runs in 90 at-bats.

Teel will likely be in the starting lineup for Venable on Monday when the White Sox open a three-game series with the Cleveland Guardians. Having Teel back for this series is huge for the White Sox (39-37), as they sit a game behind the Guardians (41-37) in the American League Central standings.

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The Chicago White Sox have hit a bit of a rough patch over the last week, as they have lost fix of their last six games heading into a pivotal three-game series with the Cleveland Guardians that begins on Monday evening.

A litany of issues have plagued the White Sox during this stretch. Their starting rotation has been problematic, and their lack of offensive depth is beginning to become an issue.

Yes, Chicago is still without Munetaka Murakami, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury, but even with Murakami healthy, it’s clear that its lineup is not entirely up to snuff. The White Sox are hitting just .237 as a team, and their .319 OBP could stand to improve.

Chicago could look to make some additions between now and the MLB trade deadline, and finding a strong contact hitter might be near the top of their to-do list.

On that note, Michael DeRosa of Southside Showdown has pitched a very intriguing trade target for the White Sox: San Francisco Giants outfielder Jung Hoo Lee.

Chicago White Sox linked to trade for Jung Hoo Lee

Lee has been one of the best average hitters in baseball this season, slashing .327/.359/.456 with four home runs, 18 doubles and 26 RBI. He has struck out just 26 times, which should definitely be appealing for a Chicago squad that ranks near the bottom of baseball in punchouts.

“Lee would have the potential to be an excellent addition to the White Sox’s roster as they continue their playoff push. While he has an opt-out in his contract following the 2027 season, they’d get at least one other year of control on Lee, which adds to his appeal,” DeRosa wrote.

The 27-year-old came over to the majors from Korea in 2024 and has slashed .282/.333/.409 since arriving. The 2026 campaign has definitely represented a breakout year for Lee, who was a fantastic .340 hitter in the KBO.

The one caveat with Lee is that he is an awful defender. He posted a minus-18 DRS and minus-5 OAA last season, and this year, he has registered a minus-5 DRS and minus-2 OAA. But the White Sox could really use his bat, so they may be willing to look past that.

Of course, cost matters, so Chicago would have to see exactly how much the Giants would be asking in return for Lee, but if San Francisco is willing to move the lefty slugger, the White Sox should at least listen pretty intently.

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The Chicago White Sox have been one of the best stories in baseball this season. Expected by most to finish in the cellar of the AL Central, the White Sox are 39-36 and are battling with the Cleveland Guardians for first place in the division.

But while Chicago is an obvious playoff contender, it’s also abundantly clear that the team has some holes it must address if it wants to continue its push.

The White Sox absolutely need to add another arm in their starting rotation, they could use another bat and they could also stand to improve their bullpen, especially at the back end where closer Seranthony Dominguez has been shaky.

But will Chicago aggressively buy before the MLB trade deadline? Or will general manager Chris Getz take a more conservative approach?

Mark Feinsand of MLB.com seems to believe the White Sox may decide to push in their chips and has labeled them a top destination for Boston Red Sox closer Aroldis Chapman.

Chicago White Sox named trade destination for Aroldis Chapman

The Red Sox have fallen out of contention, and with Chapman in the last year of his contract, it makes sense for Boston to move him now.

Should the Red Sox decide to trade him, Chicago should absolutely check in. The 38-year-old boats a 0.83 ERA and 0.969 WHIP this season while averaging 12 strikeouts per nine innings. He still regularly touches 100 mph with his fastball, even throwing a 103.8 mph pitch earlier in the year.

Meanwhile, Dominguez owns a 3.67 ERA and has struggled mightily with his command. He would probably be better off in a setup role, and if the South Siders can bring Chapman into the fold, it would give them a pretty dynamic late-inning duo.

Chapman wouldn’t be cheap, but he also wouldn’t cost the White Sox a ton given his impending free-agent status and the fact that he is a reliever, not a starter.

The question is whether or not Getz would feel comfortable surrendering any sort of valuable assets for an aging closer headed toward the open market next winter. It’s a tough question for Chicago, but if the White Sox do end up seeking relief help, it’s hard to find a better answer than Chapman.

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The Chicago White Sox have been one of the most pleasant surprises in baseball this season, as they are somehow smack dab in the middle of the playoff hunt in spite of entering the season with basement-level expectations.

Nevertheless, the White Sox have found a way, and one of the biggest reasons for their ascent has been the development of their young hitters.

We already know about Munetaka Murakami, who had smashed 20 home runs before getting the injured list with a hamstring injury in late May. But shortstop Colson Montgomery and third baseman Miguel Vargas have also taken big steps forward, as has outfielder Sam Antonacci.

Antonacci does not possess the power of Chicago’s other top sluggers, but he owns an impressive .286/.382/.407 slash line. The thing his, his walk rate is a modest 6.8 percent. How is Antonacci’s on-base percentage that high with such a pedestrian walk rate?

The answer? Getting hit by pitches, which the 23-year-old has turned into a refined skill.

Chicago White Sox OF Sam Antonacci just riled some teams up

Antonacci has been plunked 15 times this season. Only St. Louis Cardinals catcher Ivan Herrera (20) has been hit more.

So, what’s the story? How is Antonacci managing to rack up so many HBPs? Well, it seems that the Springfield, Il. native is kind of, sort of doing it on purpose, and some recent comments he made on the phenomenon will surely aggravate other MLB squads.

“It’s just knowing that I don’t have that luxury of being able to hit 30 or 40 home runs in a season,” Antonacci said, via Tyler Kepner of The Athletic. “I have to find different ways to produce, and that just happens to be one of them. I guess just being unselfish, trying to get on any way I can. I’m not going up there trying to be hit by a pitch, but if he happens to throw one at me, I’m not going to move out of the way.”

Hmm, that sure sounds like Antonacci is trying to get hit.

Regardless, so long as Antonacci is not breaking any rules by purposely leaning into a pitch that is out over the plate, he shouldn’t run into any problems. But there is no question that opposing pitchers won’t like hearing his strategy.

I guess now, pitchers will have to be very careful pitching Antonacci inside, because they now already know what he is thinking.

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For a long time, it did not seem like the Chicago White Sox would have anything to feel good about in the near future. Three straight seasons of 100+ losses, which included a Major League record 121 losses in 2024, had fans feeling as bad about the organization as at any point in franchise history.

Coming into 2026, there were not high expectations. Fans just wanted to see some semblance of improvement. The fact that Chicago is now 39-34 is better than anyone could have expected. That they are in first place in the American League Central Division is just an added bonus.

And through it all, Colson Montgomery has continued to be a bright spot.

Chicago White Sox star Colson Montgomery has made Major League history

Chicago came into New York on a high note after beating the two best teams in the National League. However, they dropped the first two games against the Yankees, and fans began to wonder if the White Sox could really hang with the powerhouses of the American League.

On Thursday, though, Chicago mashed two homers on their way to a 5-1 victory. The first of these came from Montgomery, his 20th on the season. That bomb also put him in the Major League record books:

Colson Montgomery:

1st season: 20th HR in 247th AB
2nd season: 20th HR in 254th AB

He’s the only player in history to hit 20 HR within his first 275 AB in each of his first 2 MLB seasons. pic.twitter.com/qOHkjqzK5H

— OptaSTATS (@OptaSTATS) June 19, 2026

Montgomery is the first player in MLB history to hit 20 home runs in less than 275 at-bats in each of his first two seasons. What was astounding about his feat last year was that he was not called up until mid-way through the year. Similarly, he has accomplished the feat before the halfway point of the current season.

Early on this year, a lot of the attention went to Munetaka Murakami, and rightfully so. After all, he had 20 home runs already through the first 60 games of the season.

But Montgomery is showing everyone that he is just as big of a star as his slugging counterpart.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox need special arrangement for Tarik Skubal trade
• White Sox shoot into top-10 of ESPN’s MLB power rankings
• Colson Montgomery made history in White Sox loss to Yankees

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox are expected to aggressively pursue pitching help before the trade deadline on Aug. 3.

The young White Sox lineup has been hot this spring, putting them squarely in the postseason race. But the starting rotation has issues and ranks No. 29 in ERA. Chicago’s start against the New York Yankees this week shows how badly the team needs a boost to the rotation.

New York Mets starting pitcher Freddy Peralta seems like a good choice for the White Sox, as his $8 million salary would be manageable for a young team that’s still rebuilding.

Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal has been mentioned as a potential option for Chicago by Mike Axisa of CBS Sports. During an appearance on “The Score” on Thursday, White Sox color analyst Steve Stone threw cold water on the proposition, suggesting Tigers president Scott Harris would want a deal too rich for Chicago to make.

More News: Chicago White Sox: ESPN gives 90% chance of Freddy Peralta trade

Chicago White Sox won’t be in Tarik Skubal sweepstakes

More News: White Sox planning ‘aggressive’ trade: Report

The White Sox would have to “secure” Skubal’s future. He would be a costly rental for a young team that needs to keep as many valuable pieces in the organization as possible.

“Well, if you think that the White Sox are going after Tarik Skubal, I think perhaps they should check the water over there in your building, because number one, to give Scott Harris what he wants for Skubal, you’re going to have to make a deal ahead of time that secures his future in whatever team he’s going to,” Stone said.

“The Dodgers would be the logical team. They have both the money and the prospects. The White Sox will not be in the Skubal acquisition phase.”

The Tigers will certainly be looking to trade Skubal this summer if the team doesn’t make a turnaround before August. Harris will want to get something in return for Skubal before he heads to free agency at the end of the season.

The White Sox aren’t ready to make such a move, but the team will explore more reasonable options that won’t have the same upside as Skubal.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, For more on the NCAA, head to Newsweek Sports.Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The last two games may not have gone their way, but the Chicago White Sox are still in first place in the American League Central Division. At 38-34, Chicago is a vastly improved team than the product the put on the field over the last few years.

What has been most surprising as of late is that the White Sox have continued winning despite the injury absence of Munetaka Murakami. When he went down with a strained hamstring, many were worried that Chicago would not be able to keep up in the division.

Not only have they been able to keep up, they are now in first place.

The Chicago White Sox land the eighth spot in ESPN’s top-10 rankings

When the season began, Chicago was consistently ranked at or near the bottom of ESPN’s power rankings. This was understandable, of course, given that they lost over 100 games in each of the past three seasons. Additionally, they opened 2026 by being swept.

But now, thanks to their wins over the two best teams in the National League, the White Sox have been ranked eighth:

“The White Sox completed a solid week during a tough stretch of their schedule. First, they took two of two from the Braves, then won their three-game series against the Dodgers thanks to a rally in the rubber game Sunday.

“Chicago scored six runs in the sixth to erase a 1-0 deficit behind three home runs in the inning. It has been their trademark: The White Sox are among the league leaders in slugging and right behind the Yankees in home runs. Even while missing Munetaka Murakami because of injury, their power hasn’t tanked.”

In order to maintain this top-ten ranking, Chicago is going to have to bounce back from what is currently a disappointing series in New York. If they can, they should be able to get to Murakami’s return in a good position to keep the good times rolling.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox linked to unthinkable trade that would change everything
• 4 White Sox players in the hunt for the 2026 MLB All-Star Game
• ESPN gives 90% chance of Freddy Peralta trade

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox knew that the stretch of games they are currently playing were going to be tough. After shocking many by winning consecutive series at home against the Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Dodgers, they have dropped two straight games on the road against the New York Yankees.

Fortunately, they have not fallen out of first place in the American League Central Division because the Cleveland Guardians have dropped two in a row as well. At 38-34, the White Sox are miles ahead of where many thought they would be, and their young stars, such a Colson Montgomery, are a big reason why.

Colson Montgomery made Chicago White Sox history in loss to New York Yankees

Montgomery burst on the scene last year following his mid-season call-up to the Majors. As a rookie, he hit .239/.311/.529 with 21 home runs and 55 RBI in 71 games played.

He has been nearly as good through 69 games to start the 2026 season, slashing .225/.319/.502 with 19 home runs and 44 RBI.

Last night, he hit his 19th home run of the season against New York. It was his 40th career home run, a milestone he has reached faster than any other player in franchise history:

Colson Montgomery reached 40 career home runs in 140 games, the fewest games to the mark in White Sox history

He hit his first homer on 7/22/25. Since that day, he’s second in MLB in home runs, behind only Kyle Schwarber (49) https://t.co/BlP8uvLUum

— Sarah Langs (@SlangsOnSports) June 18, 2026

As one can see from the post above, not only has Montgomery reached 40 home runs faster than any player in franchise history, but he also has the second-most home runs in the Majors since he made his debut.

One might assume that Munetaka Murakami has a chance to break this mark if he comes back with enough games to play and continues to rake at the rate at which he was before he got hurt. Still, what Montgomery has been doing ever since last July has been nothing short of impressive.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox linked to unthinkable trade that would change everything
• 4 White Sox players in the hunt for the 2026 MLB All-Star Game
• ESPN gives 90% chance of Freddy Peralta trade

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox have run into a bit of a buzzsaw the last couple of nights, losing to the New York Yankees in a pair of blowout losses. However, they are still 38-34 on the season and are smack dab in the middle of playoff contention.

Because of how surprising the White Sox have been this year, they may ultimately end up crashing the MLB trade deadline.

Just about everyone anticipated that Chicago would be a midsummer seller, but things have changed. With the White Sox looking like favorites in the AL Central, they could ultimately try to bolster their roster for a postseason run, and they have the chips to do it.

Chicago’s farm system has become rather enviable over the last year, and it has impressive depth that it can use in significant trades.

With the White Sox in dire need of starting pitching, adding another rotation arm should be at the top of their priority list. ESPN’s Jeff Passan and Kiley McDaniel seem to believe that the South Siders will try to do just that, and they have identified a shocking potential target for them: Minnesota Twins ace Joe Ryan.

Chicago White Sox linked to blockbuster trade for Joe Ryan

Passan and McDaniel gave Ryan a 55 percent chance of being dealt, which should not come as much of a surprise with Ryan having just one year of club control remaining and the Twins certainly not resembling contenders.

But would Minnesota actually trade Ryan to a division rival?

Ryan has logged a 3.17 ERA this season, allowing 66 hits while racking up 92 strikeouts over 82.1 innings of work. He boasts a sparkling 0.996 WHIP, and his 5.75 K/BB ratio is genuinely elite. Not only that, but his 2.89 FIP indicates that he has actually gotten a bit unlucky in 2026.

The Twins could reap quite a haul for Ryan. They know this, which is why they will surely do everything in their power to send him out of the AL Central. They would probably even prefer to ship him out of the American League in general.

But if the White Sox were able to land Ryan, they would suddenly lay claim to a really impressive one-two punch of Ryan and Davis Martin at the top of their rotation with Sean Burke as a solid No. 3. It would absolutely increase their chances of a division title, and it would make them a relatively scary team in the playoffs.

It would truly be something if Chicago were able to pull this off, but it just doesn’t seem all that probable.

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The first-place Chicago White Sox have been one of baseball’s biggest surprises this season. Not only have they blown past preseason rebuilding expectations, but they’ve also proven their strong start was no fluke and appear poised to remain in the playoff conversation throughout the year.

As a result, several players have begun generating All-Star buzz, including first baseman Munetaka Murakami, third baseman Miguel Vargas, shortstop Colson Montgomery, and starting pitcher Davis Martin. With Phase one of MLB All-Star voting just over the half way point, here is where the position players rank as of June 15.

Four Chicago White Sox players in the hunt to be 2026 All-Stars

Despite being on the injured list with a hamstring strain since May 30, Murakami currently ranks third among all American League first baseman with 437,07 votes. He trails Ben Rice of the New York Yankees with 509,830 and Vladimir Guerrero Jr of the Toronto Blue Jays with 603,014 votes.

Miguel Vargas is in the same position in the third base standings with 329,208 votes. There is a further gap between him and the second and first place players however as Kazuma Okamoto of the Blue Jays has 556,172 votes and Junior Caminero of the Tampa Bay Rays has 625,520 votes.

At shortstop, Colson Montgomery holds the fourth most votes at 176,673. Bobby Witt Jr of the Kansas City Royals is leading this position by a wide margin, with 890,575 votes, while Andres Gimenez of the Blue Jays and Kevin McGongile trail him with 354,651 and 266,239 votes respectively.

In order to advance to phase 2 of MLB All-Star voting, these White Sox position players have to be in at least second place. This means there is some work for each to do in order to keep their mid summer classic aspirations alive. Phase 1 of voting ends on June 25.

As a reminder, pitchers are not voted in by the fans. Rather, player votes and commissioner selection is how they are selected. With how dominant Davis Martin has been this year, it’s hard to image he won’t be selected.

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With a surprising start to the season, the Chicago White Sox are expected to be aggressive before the trade deadline on Aug. 3.

Bob Nightengale of USA Today and Jon Hayman of the MLB Network expect the White Sox to go after pitching help at the deadline, especially for a starting pitcher who can help a rotation that has a chance to play extra baseball in the playoffs after two miserable seasons.

Before taking on the New York Yankee on Wednesday, the White Sox have a 38-33 record, and are tied with the Cleveland Guardians for first place in the American League Central.

One pitcher for the White Sox to keep their eyes on is New York Mets right-handed pitcher Freddy Peralta. Per ESPN, there is a 90 percent chance the Mets trade Peralta this season. Despite having the MLB’s second-highest payroll, New York is in the dumps with a 33-41 record, the worst in the National League East.

More News: White Sox planning ‘aggressive’ trade: Report

Chicago White Sox: Freddy Peralta would be a cheap addition

More News:  Chicago White Sox considering top prospect for MLB debut

Kiley McDaniel and Jeff Passan of ESPN noted that Peralta is only making $8 million this season, which would be an “attractive” number for a low-payroll team. (Like the White Sox.)

Peralta is making $8 million this season, an awfully attractive figure for low-payroll teams. While he’s off to a slow start this spring with a 5-5 record and ERA of 3.90, he has plenty in the tank for a team wanting to make a postseason run.

“(Peralta) just turned 30, has below-average fastball velocity and is listed at 6 feet tall and 198 pounds,” they wrote. “So, it’s good to know that he doesn’t succeed due to pure velocity, because he’ll need angles and command in his favor even more going forward.”

The offense has been powering the White Sox through this spring. Per evanalytics.com, Chicago’s rotation ranks 29th with a 4.69 ERA, only better than the Colorado Rockies. For the White Sox to become a legit contender, the pitching must be better in the second half of the season.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, For more on the NCAA, head to Newsweek Sports.Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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Why Strategy Matters in Sports

Sports have always been dynamic and progressive. Every year, athletes become more efficient and trained. Teams are constantly developing new methods to improve their performance. A lot depends on the strategy when trying to achieve results. The term “strategy” implies more than just a simple game plan. It involves training, developing players’ skills, analyzing data, and making decisions before and during the game. Opponents are analyzed, statistics are reviewed, and ways to gain an advantage are sought. A correct strategy can help face stronger opponents and play successfully. It can assist players in giving the maximum of themselves. Sometimes good planning plays the same role as natural talent. It is not surprising that interest in sports strategies exists not only among coaches and players but also among fans who follow analytics, statistics, and trends using various resources, including online sportsbook Ontario.

Current Chicago Landscape

The Chicago professional sports scene is currently anchored by a mix of high-stakes transitional periods and cautious optimism.

The Bears are dominating the airwaves despite being in offseason. As training camp and preseason loom, they will always carry immense expectations behind quarterback Caleb Williams following a promising playoff push last season.

The Cubs are locked in a competitive battle for a National League Wild Card spot, while the White Sox have surprisingly bounced back to fight for the lead in a tight AL Central with the Cleveland Guardians.

Meanwhile, the Blackhawks continue to construct their future around Connor Bedard, and the Bulls are searching for a fresh identity after missing the postseason. It’s a landscape defined by emerging young stars and a city eager for its next championship contender.

Building a Better Team

Strategy is not only about what happens on the field or court. It also plays a major role when teams build their rosters.

A good example is the Chicago Bulls. Before a new season starts, fans and analysts often ask which positions need help. Right now, many experts believe the Bulls need to strengthen the center position. The team could use a player who protects the basket, grabs rebounds, and adds size in the paint.

This kind of decision is part of a long-term strategy. Teams must identify weaknesses and find players who can solve those problems. A smart move in the offseason can make a big difference once the season begins.

The Growing Role of Artificial Intelligence in Pro Sports

Artificial intelligence is becoming a bigger part of sports every year. Many teams already use AI tools to study games and players.

For These systems can review thousands of plays in a short time. They can find patterns that people might miss. Coaches can use this information to improve tactics and prepare for future games.

AI can also help with player health. It can track workloads, spot signs of fatigue, and reduce the risk of injury. This allows athletes to stay in better condition throughout the season.

For many sports organizations, AI has become a valuable tool.

The Bulls revamped their digital ecosystem using a backend AI tool called Squid AI. Rather than putting a public-facing chatbot on their site, the team uses the AI selectively behind APIs to improve username validation and enable natural language search on their schedule pages.

As part of the fan code of conduct, all patrons attending games at the United Center are strictly prohibited from bringing AI Glasses or any wearable smart devices capable of photographing, recording, or streaming with AI-assisted features.

The NBA is transitioning to using AI-driven automated camera systems to make objective, instantaneous rulings on specific calls, such as out-of-bounds plays. This system is designed to take the burden off human referees and prevent disputes over possession.

Are There Any Risks?

While AI offers many benefits, it also creates some concerns.

One concern is that teams may become too dependent on technology. Sports have always included emotion, instinct, and quick decisions. These human qualities make games exciting. If computers start making too many decisions, some people worry that sports could lose part of their character.

Another issue is fairness. Large clubs often have bigger budgets and better technology. Smaller teams may not have access to the same tools. This could create a wider gap between the top teams and everyone else.

Because of this, sports organizations will need to find the right balance between technology and competition.

What Does the Future Hold?

The future of sports looks exciting. Technology will likely become even more advanced. Teams will collect more data and use better tools to improve performance.

Training programs may become more personal. Athletes could receive advice based on their own strengths, weaknesses, and physical condition. Fans may also enjoy better broadcasts, more statistics, and new ways to follow their favorite teams.

At the same time, some things will never change. Hard work, talent, teamwork, and strong leadership will always matter. Technology can support athletes, but it cannot replace the desire to win.

The Link Between Sports Betting and Strategy

Sports strategy is also connected to sports betting. Many people think betting is only about luck, but successful bettors usually spend a lot of time studying sports.

They look at team form, player performance, injuries, statistics, and coaching decisions. They try to understand which team has the better plan and the better chance of winning.

Of course, sports are unpredictable. No strategy can guarantee a result. Upsets happen every season. That is one reason fans love sports.

Still, good analysis can help people make better decisions. The same strategic thinking that helps teams succeed can also help people understand games more clearly. In the end, sports, technology, and strategy are closely connected, and sports betting is another area where smart planning and careful analysis play an important role.

The post How Strategy Drives Sports Forward and What the Future May Look Like appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago White Sox may have gotten hammered by the New York Yankees on Tuesday night, but that doesn’t change the fact that they have still been one of the best stories in baseball this season and are smack dab in the middle of the American League playoff picture.

The White Sox are in first place in the AL Central and have gone 32-18 since April 17, representing the best record in the American League during that time.

However, it’s clear that Chicago could still use some help, and it may look to buy some pieces between now and the MLB trade deadline.

No one expected the White Sox to actually be adding players heading into the campaign. Everyone assumed they would be sellers. But they are playing well above expectations, so they could try to swing some deals. But how aggressive will they actually be?

Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer has pitched a wild trade idea for Chicago, naming the South Siders a landing spot for San Francisco Giants slugger Rafael Devers.

Chicago White Sox linked to wild Rafael Devers trade

The White Sox could absolutely stand to add some more lineup depth, and that’s even more relevant with Munetaka Murakami sidelined due to a hamstring injury.

The Giants would surely love to get out from under Devers’ contract, a 10-year, $313.5 million pact he signed with the Boston Red Sox back in 2023. The deal runs through 2033, and San Francisco is not exactly getting the best returns on it after acquiring the 29-year-old via trade last season.

Devers leads the majors with 21 doubles this year, but he is slashing just .235/.293/.413 with nine home runs and 33 RBI over 307 plate appearances in what has been the worst showing of his big-league career. Would Chicago — which owns one of the lowest payrolls in all of baseball — really be willing to absorb Devers’ contract for that production?

To be fair, the lefty slugger smash 35 homers to go along with an .851 OPS in 2025, and he has historically been a terrific hitter, boasting a lifetime .273/.346/.501 slash line. He would also obviously cost very little in terms of prospect capital. In fact, the Giants may be willing to send a prospect or two to the White Sox just to dump his salary.

But is this a move that Chicago would realistically make? It just doesn’t seem very likely unless San Francisco is willing to eat a good portion of Devers’ deal. And even then, it really isn’t all that probable.

The post White Sox connected to unexpected $313 million trade amid wild season appeared first on ChiCitySports.

It is June 16, and the Chicago White Sox, to the surprise of just about everyone, are in first place in the American League Central Division. At 38-32, they have the third best record in the American League as a whole. Indeed, very few, if anyone, saw the White Sox being this good, much less a winning team, in 2026.

About a week ago, fans were looking at the upcoming schedule with a bit of trepidation. While Chicago was winning games, they faced an upcoming series of games against the best teams in baseball.

So far, they are 4-1 in this stretch and have a great deal of confidence ahead of their series against the New York Yankees. Unfortunately, not all the news out of Chicago is good.

Chicago White Sox prospect Hagen Smith is being shut down for a couple weeks

On Tuesday afternoon, it was reported that the White Sox top pitching prospect, Hagen Smith, is being shut down for a couple of weeks:

Injury update: Hagen Smith has left shoulder impingement. He will be shut down from throwing for two weeks and then ramp back up for two weeks before returning to game action, per team.

— Scott Merkin (@scottmerkin) June 16, 2026

This is not the best news, not only because of the young pitcher’s physical well-being, but also because he was just on the brink of being called up to the Majors this past weekend.

According to White Sox insider Brian Murphy, “Prior to Tuesday’s game against the Yankees, White Sox manager Will Venable said that the team considered calling up Smith to start Saturday’s game against the Dodgers at Rate Field. However, a rainout of Chicago’s game on Thursday against the Braves allowed the club to reset its rotation, and Sean Burke faced the Dodgers instead.”

Smith is 0-5 with a 4.67 ERA in 14 starts in Triple-A this year.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• Forgotten White Sox prospect tied to 3x All-Star released after 6 seasons
• White Sox reportedly have confusing MLB trade deadline plans
• White Sox hit with dose of reality by MLB analyst

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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A decade ago, the Chicago White Sox made a franchise altering decision when they acquired RHP James Shields from the San Diego Padres in exchange for RHP Erik Johnson and 3B Fernando Tatis Jr. At the time, Tatis Jr was a teenage prospect playing at the Rookie level of the minor leagues, but he’s since gone on to be a three time All-Star and two time platinum glove award winner with the Padres.

In hopes of capitalizing on the same family talent, Chicago sign Wilfred Veras out of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic in 2019. Veras is a first cousin to Tatis Jr, and initially showed great promise as a prospect as he put on a huge display of power. Unfortunately, his production fizzled out over time and he now has been released by the White Sox organization after six seasons in the minors.

The White Sox have released OF Wilfred Veras.

— Ian Eskridge (@dailywhitesox) June 14, 2026

Chicago White Sox release once promising outfield prospect Wilfred Veras

After a strong showing at the Rookie level in 2021, where Veras posted a .322/.416/.533 slash line over 46 games, Veras put on a huge display of power in years following. Between Single-A and Double-A competition, Veras belted 20 home runs in 2022 and 17 in 2023. In strictly Double-A in 2024 that number dropped to 16, but then a huge drop off in production followed in 2025 when he slashed a career worst .215/.293/.327 with nine home runs.

Before his release this year, Veras was once again slumping. Through 45 games in Double-A, he owned a .219/.281/350 slash line. Strikeout were also a growing concerning, coming in at 30.8% this year, which was similar to years prior.

While Veras never developed into the impact prospect the White Sox had hoped for, his release serves as another reminder of how difficult projecting young talent can be. The raw power that once made him an intriguing prospect was evident throughout his minor league career, but persistent swing-and-miss issues ultimately prevented him from taking the next step. Now a free agent, Veras will look to revive his career elsewhere.

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The Chicago White Sox have been one of the best teams in baseball for the last month-and-a-half, having gone 27-15 since bottoming out at 11-17 back on April 26. The White Sox are now in first place in the AL Central, and they have shown no signs of slowing down.

Even a hamstring injury to Munetaka Murakami has not hindered Chicago’s progress. In fact, the White Sox have made up ground in the division since Murakami went down late last month.

So, what does this mean for Chicago’s trade deadline plans?

Everyone expected the White Sox to be sellers this season, but things have obviously changed. Not only is Chicago in playoff contention, but it is now firmly in the driver’s seat in the AL Central, especially after Jose Ramirez’s hamate bone fracture in Cleveland.

The White Sox could end up buying between now and Aug. 3, but just how aggressive will they be? Therein lies the problem for general manager Chris Getz.

Chicago White Sox’s MLB trade deadline plans are confusing

Bob Nightengale of USA TODAY recently revealed some nuggets with the deadline in sight, and he dropped some confusing intel on the South Siders.

“They plan to be aggressive at the trade deadline in their search for pitching, but not at the expense of parting with any of their top prospects as they build towards the future,” Nightengale wrote.

Well, just how “aggressive” can you actually be if you are making all of your top prospects off limits?

Chicago’s farm system wasn’t highly-touted entering the season, but things have since changed. Some now view the White Sox’s farm system as one of the better ones in baseball, so it’s not like Getz can’t afford to trade from depth.

Unless Chicago — which owns the best record in the American League since April 17 — doesn’t genuinely believe it can make a run this season, then essentially sitting out the trade deadline because of prospect stashing could prove fatal.

There is no guarantee the White Sox will be in the playoffs year after year, so now that they have a great chance of playing October baseball, they should take advantage of it. That doesn’t mean they should do anything silly, but if they can manage to land some club-controlled talent, they should be willing to part with decent prospect capital.

The post White Sox reportedly have confusing MLB trade deadline plans appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago White Sox have been seeing a great first few months of the season. Players have been surpassing their preseason expectations, and that includes one starting pitcher. He is pitching like one of the best pitchers in Major League Baseball thus far. Let’s take a closer look at who it is and what he has been doing on the mound to get this type of attention.

Davis Martin is a contender for the 2026 AL Cy Young Award

Sports Illustrated’s Tim Capurso wrote an article highlighting the top contenders in the American League Cy Young race. Chicago fans were thrilled to see Davis Martin getting some recognition for his outstanding start to the year, as he highlighted in the article:

“Martin has been one of the pleasant surprises on one of baseball’s most surprising teams in the second-place White Sox. The 29-year-old, who underwent Tommy John surgery in 2023 and dealt with a forearm injury last season, is also an example of a pitching success story in light of health setbacks, a rarity in the age of high velocity.

“Speaking of which, Martin doesn’t throw hard but he doesn’t need to. The Abilene, Tx., native boasts six pitches in his arsenal, three of which are fastballs – a four-seamer, sinker and cutter – that are delivered from the same arm slot and sport similar enough velocities to keep with the deception. Add in a capable curveball and slider and it’s not hard to see why Martin ranks in the 68th percentile or better in chase, whiff and strikeout rates. One of just four pitchers in the AL to rank in the top-10 in both strikeout and groundball rate, Martin in very much in the running for this award.”

Martin has been a star for the White Sox this season, despite not even being the team’s Opening Day starter. In 12 starts, he is 8-2 with a 2.61 ERA and a .236 opposing batting average in 72.1 innings. He also has kept the ball in the park, giving up just three home runs this year. Each season, Martin has shown the ability to improve on the bump and he is continuing that trend in his fourth MLB season.

This is not the first time he is getting some love for his 2026 production. Now as a full-time starting pitcher in the bigs, it is going to be intriguing to see if Davis can continue pitching like a Cy Young Award candidate.

The post This Chicago White Sox pitcher is a legitimate Cy Young candidate appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago White Sox are one of the hottest teams in the MLB after winning series against the Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Dodgers.

The White Sox enter Monday’s off day tied with the Cleveland Guardians for first place in the American League Central.

Chicago stunned the Dodgers (who hold the best record in the MLB at 46-27) with an 8-2 win on Friday night. Los Angeles responded with a 7-1 win on Saturday. The White Sox closed out their series with a 6-4 win in front of a pumped-up crowd of 38,507 at Rate Field.

Following the game, Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman told reporters it looked like the White Sox were turning the corner and could be a force to contend with for years to come, via the Chicago Sun-Times.

Third baseman Max Muncy noticed how much of a difference the crowd is making for the White Sox at Rate Field, noting it’s pushing the young core forward.

‘‘That team is feeding off the crowd, and the crowd is feeding off the team,’’ Muncy said. ‘‘That’s definitely what makes baseball fun, is when you start getting these atmospheres. We’ve gotten real numb to it because we play in front of it every single night, but [the Sox deserve] to be feeling it.’’

The White Sox won just 41 games in 2024 and 60 games in 2025. They’re 38-22 in the middle of June.

More News: Chicago White Sox trade for prospects from the Philadelphia Phillies

Chicago White Sox: The bad days are history

More News: White Sox planning ‘aggressive’ trade

Shortstop Colson Montgomery believes seasons like in 2024 and 2025 are behind the White Sox.

‘‘I think you should stop thinking of this as a surprise just because we’re consistently winning [and] we’re consistently in every game,’’ Montgomery said. ‘‘It doesn’t matter what team it is, we’re going to go out there and just try to play our ball. I think those days are kind of over.’’

The White Sox have another big series coming up this week starting on Tuesday. Chicago will travel to play the New York Yankees for a three-game series.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, For more on the NCAA, head to Newsweek Sports.Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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It is June 15, the Chicago White Sox are in first place in the American League Central Division. They currently have a record of 38-32, making them one of just five teams in the whole American League with a winning record. Chicago also currently has the third-best record in the AL, behind the Tampa Bay Rays and New York Yankees (whom they play this week).

When the White Sox were winning games early, many gave credit to the offense led by Munetaka Murakami. But ever since the Japanese slugger went down with a hamstring strain, Chicago has continued to win.

It has gotten to the point where no one can write them off anymore.

Ken Rosenthal says the Chicago White Sox are still rebuilding

On Monday, MLB on Fox reporter and analyst Ken Rosenthal was on the latest episode of the “Foul Territory” show. During his segment, he spent some time describing just how amazing the White Sox turnaround has been:

The White Sox look increasingly legit after taking two of three from the Dodgers.

“This team fights. They’ve got talent, and they do a lot of good things,” says @Ken_Rosenthal. pic.twitter.com/MbQGSKM7Ju

— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) June 15, 2026

“It’s an amazing thing that has happened here. The turnaround of of this franchise. This week, or the past week, they won two straight from Atlanta before postponement, and then they won two of three for the Los Angeles Dodgers at home. 4-1 home stand.

“They are now 20-4 in their last 24 games at home. They are 8-5 without Munetaka Murakami. Remember, he went down and people thought ‘Eh, their offense might struggle.’ Seventh in the Majors in runs per game. Their offense has continued to be really good and, yeah, they’re going to need some help at the deadline.

“They’re going to need some pitching help if they’re going to stay in this thing. And they are a rebuilding club still, so I don’t expect them to go crazy. But, the White Sox are much more competitive than any of us thought.

“This team fights, they’ve got talent, they hit home runs, they do a lot of good things. Antonacci is an exciting player, Meidroth, all of these guys contributing.”

All of these things are true. The White Sox are, indeed, a young and exciting team with a bright, bright future ahead of them.

That being said, they are still rebuilding. Now, they may be further along in that rebuild than many people initially thought, but they are rebuilding.

The good news, though, is that they are not far off, and rebuilding teams can still add talent and make the playoffs. But in terms of seriously competing for a World Series, they are still a year or two away.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox urged to dump former first-round pick before MLB trade deadline
• One phase of the White Sox roster has out-performed expectations
• White Sox sign veteran pitcher Javy Guerra to a minor league deal

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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By taking two of three from the defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers, the Chicago White Sox didn’t just win a series this weekend. They are reshaping the city’s baseball hierarchy in Chicago.

The White Sox didn’t just prove they can compete. They proved they’ve arrived. Additionally, they now have a legitimate chance to win the division even though it might be the worst division in the MLB.

For the first time in years, the White Sox look like the franchise with direction, momentum, and a future.

The White Sox set the tone by beating the Dodgers 8-2 on Friday. The Dodgers won 7-1 on Saturday, with Yoshinobu Yamamoto taking a no-hit bid into the ninth inning. They secured a 6-4 comeback win in the series finale, as they erupted for six runs in the sixth inning.

Keep in mind this is a team missing Munetaka Murakami, who is out 4-6 weeks with a Grade 2 right hamstring strain he sustained on May 29. The Sox are getting contributions from everywhere — the rotation, the bullpen, the lineup. Especially, they are getting help from the kids who are injecting energy into the clubhouse.

Beating the Dodgers, with a roster full of young, ascending players, is even more impressive.

Meanwhile, the Chicago Cubs took two out of three against the San Francisco Giants over the weekend. But no Cubs fan will confuse that with a resurgence.

• Not after losing ten straight games not too long ago.
• Not with an offense that vanishes for days.
• Not with a rotation that’s been gutted by injuries.
• Not with a roster that still feels disjointed.

What the Cubs got was a mild reprieve this weekend. June was supposed to be a month where they finally get back on track with 12 straight games against both the Colorado Rockies and San Francisco Giants. Instead, they are 4-5 against them after Sunday’s loss, with the Rockies coming to Wrigley Field starting on Monday.

The White Sox flipped the baseball landscape this weekend

Right now, the White Sox are a team on the rise with a manager who is pushing the right buttons so far. They beat an elite opponent in front of a large crowd. Also, they are getting production from young players who are playing with energy and identity.

The White Sox have more young talent in their minor league system, including Caleb Bonemer, George Wolkow, Billy Carlson, and a slew of other prospects. If they select UCLA SS Rock Cholowsky, who is the consensus top pick in the upcoming draft, as expected, he could easily become a top-3 prospect in a system that is already deep.

As for the Cubs? They have few MLB‑ready prospects like the White Sox. Their cores are aging and regressing. And both their front office and a highly paid manager are under scrutiny. But it’s hard to believe they can get a strong return.

The White Sox beating the Dodgers was a declaration that Chicago’s baseball landscape has been officially flipped.

The post Chicago White Sox flipped the baseball landscape this weekend appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago White Sox have not been a good team for a while. Or, more accurately, they had not been a good team for a while. Going into the 2026 MLB season, many people, including their own fans, had very low expectations for the team that had lost 100+ games in three consecutive seasons.

As a result, pre-season and early-season power rankings often found the White Sox at or near the bottom of their lists. A sweep at the hands of the Milwaukee Brewers on Opening Weekend did little to help matters.

Since that time, though, Chicago has taken the MLB world by storm and surprise.

The Chicago White Sox earn a 6th spot on latest MLB power rankings

Now 38-32, the White Sox are tied for the American League Central Division lead. After years of finishing in the cellar, they are now one of the best teams in the division, and are coming off of series wins against the Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Dodgers, the two best teams in all Major League Baseball.

As a result, they are now ranked sixth in MLB’s rankings:

“The Chicago White Sox have had one full winning season since 2013, and they have lost 100 games three consecutive seasons, including a nightmare 121-loss campaign in 2024. That’s a lot of pain for their fans, to say the least. But it is all starting to come together.

“After a weekend when Chicago took two out of three from the reigning champion Dodgers and still sit in a virtual tie atop the AL Central, the White Sox shot up three spots to No. 6 in the MLB.com Power Rankings. Sixth! The White Sox! The sun may finally be coming out for this franchise.”

The season is not yet halfway over, and a lot can go wrong between now and the end of the year. However, the White Sox have overcome losing their most-feared slugger and have been able to win games with one of the youngest rosters in the game.

There will be bumps, as is natural in a 162-game season. But it certainly seems that the days of perpetual losing are over.

Finally.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox urged to dump former first-round pick before MLB trade deadline
• One phase of the White Sox roster has out-performed expectations
• White Sox sign veteran pitcher Javy Guerra to a minor league deal

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox are achieving things that no one thought they were capable of during the first half of the 2026 MLB campaign, as they are sitting at 38-32 and in first place in the AL Central.

They just took series from the Atlanta Braves and the Los Angeles Dodgers, and since bottoming out at 11-17 earlier in the season, they have gone 27-15.

This makes the White Sox one of the most intriguing teams to watch heading into the MLB trade deadline. The entire world had them pegged as midsummer sellers going into the campaign, but now, Chicago might just do something crazy and buy.

The White Sox certainly have some holes that need to be patched, such as a thin starting rotation and a lineup that gets shaky once you get past the big boppers. They also have some assets they could move in blockbuster deals, and Noah Phalen of Southside Showdown already thinks they could be shopping shortstop prospect Billy Carlson.

Chicago White Sox urged to trade Billy Carlson

Chicago selected Carlson with the 10th overall pick of the 2025 MLB Draft, but with the White Sox being absolutely loaded at Carlson’s position, they can afford to send him packing.

“In Carlson, the White Sox have a young, developmental hitter with an elite defensive profile at shortstop. It’s difficult to envision him needing to move away from shortstop defensively, but he’s just 19 years-old and needs to take steps forward at the plate. On top of this, the White Sox have the top pick in the 2026 MLB draft and are likely deciding between shortstops Roch Cholowsky and Grady Emerson,” Phalen wrote.

Carlson is slashing .257/.386/.340 with no home runs and 11 RBI over 177 plate appearances at Single-A Kannapolis this season. The complete absence of power is definitely concerning, even for a shortstop. So perhaps Chicago should look to move him in a major trade.

“With Colson Montgomery, Chase Meidroth, Sam Antonacci, Caleb Bonemer, Jacob Gonzalez, and Kyle Lodise all at or near the big league level and capable of playing shortstop, it’s an area the organization can afford to deal from to bring in another position of need,” Phalen added.

Trading from a position of strength is always the way to go, so the White Sox shouldn’t be shy about including Carlson in trade offers. That doesn’t necessarily mean they should just give him away, but when it comes to acquiring a star player, the Mission Viejo, Ca. native should be on the table.

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On June 15, who would have thought the Chicago White Sox would be a top offense in the American League?

The Chicago White Sox having a quality offense is a real surprise, as so many of their hitters are young

Even without their best power hitter, first baseman Munetaka Murakami (right hamstring strain), the White Sox are second to the New York Yankees (102) for the most home runs (96) in the American League. The White Sox offense has also scored the fourth-most runs (333), fifth-most RBI (317) and fourth in on-base percentage (.325).

More White Sox News: Chicago White Sox rookie Braden Montgomery makes MLB history in debut

Alongside Murakami, shortstop Colson Montgomery and third baseman Miguel Vargas have helped take the offense to the next level. Montgomery is second on the team in home runs (17) and third in OPS (.801), and Vargas is third in home runs (16) and second in OPS (.860).

Center fielder Tristin Peters, who isn’t talked about nearly as much in Major League Baseball, has also been exceptional. The White Sox acquired Peters from the Tampa Bay Rays back in December for cash considerations. Peters is the White Sox’s best contact hitter, batting .294, and is fourth on the team in hits (52).

“It would be easy to point to outfielder Tristan Peters, who went from battling for a roster spot out of Spring Training to becoming a force offensively and defensively,” wrote MLB.com’s Scott Merkin. “Or how about third baseman Miguel Vargas, who has emerged as an American League MVP candidate. Let’s not overlook the massive home run power of Munetaka Murakami, who has made a number of teams regret they didn’t pursue him more stridently as a free agent from Japan. But the nod goes to the entire team, taking a step from competitiveness after the 2025 All-Star break to a division leader in mid-June of the current campaign.”

Currently tied with the Cleveland Guradians for the lead in the American League Central, the White Sox could capture their first division title since 2021. For the White Sox to separate themselves from the Guardians, general manager Chris Getz will need to be on his game for the trade deadline (Aug. 3).

The White Sox need pitching. So, acquiring a starter and a bullpen arm is a must.

The post Chicago White Sox: One phase of the roster has outperformed appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago White Sox are in a position that very few people saw them being in before the season started. At 37-32, they are just a half-game out of first place in the American League Central Division. Due to the overall poor showing from the majority of American League team’s, the White Sox currently have an excellent chance to make the postseason in 2026.

Of course, this is shocking because they lost over 100 games in 2023, 2024, and 2025. 2024 saw them go 41-121, the worst single-season record in the history of Major League Baseball.

Now, however, they have turned their fortunes around. With the summer progressing, it is becoming more and more obvious that Chicago will be buyers at the MLB trade deadline as opposed to their usual role as sellers.

With this in mind, it stands to reason that they are scouring the free agent market to have pieces in place for when dominoes start falling.

The Chicago White Sox have signed Javy Guerra

It stands to reason that, should the White Sox try to acquire anyone at the MLB trade deadline, they will be giving up one of the league’s most prized commodities: pitching. On that note, they have signed veteran Javy Guerrra to a minor league contract, per MLB trade rumors.

A 30-year-old right handed pitcher, Guerra has not appeared in the Majors since 2023. In 61 career appearances, he is 3-1 with a 6.43 ERA and 1.78 WHIP.

After splitting the 2023 season with the Milwaukee Brewers and Tampa Bay Rays, Guerra spent 2024 and 2025 pitching in Japan. While there, he was 1-5 with a 2.44 ERA in 65 games.

Guerra signed with the Atlanta Braves ahead of the 2026 season, but never saw the Majors. In 16 games with their Triple-A club, he was 0-1 with a 5.68 ERA. He was released just this past Thursday.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox planning for an aggressive trade ahead of MLB deadline
• White Sox trade from Philadelphia Phillies prospect
• Why Munetaka Murakami is White Sox biggest breakout player of 2026

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox are 37-32, a record very few people, if any, predicted they would have at this point in the season. After all, the White Sox lost more than 100 games in each of the previous three years, and there were not many signs pointing at a sudden turnaround. Instead, fans were gearing up for another slow rebuild season.

However, Chicago has benefited from the unexpected contributions of several young players, most notably Munetaka Murakami. Yet even with the Japanese slugger on the injured list, the White Sox have been able to continue winning games on a consistent basis.

What is more, they have another young star, catcher Kyle Teel, nearing return.

Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel is nearing return

Teel was originally injured while playing for Team Italy in the World Baseball Classic. He suffered a grade-two hamstring strain, which forced him to start the 2026 on the injured list. Last month, while on a rehab assignment in Triple-A Charlotte, he suffered an LCL sprain in his right knee, which set his return date back even more.

Fortunately, it sounds like he is finally trending in the right direction:

Wh Sox manager Will Venable said that catcher Kyle Teel will likely be sent out to an affiliate and work toward returning off the IL In the next few days.His hamstring has healed, his knee strain is also getting very close to full recovery. Originally hurt in WBC March 9th.

— Bruce Levine (@MLBBruceLevine) June 12, 2026

As one can see from the post above, Teel is close to the point where he will able to go out on another rehab assignment. This time, hopefully, he will avoid further injury.

After being called up by the White Sox last year, Teel hit .273/.375/.411 with eight home runs and 35 RBI in 78 games played.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox planning for an aggressive trade ahead of MLB deadline
• White Sox trade from Philadelphia Phillies prospect
• Why Munetaka Murakami is White Sox biggest breakout player of 2026

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox have been the biggest surprise of the season in the MLB, and they might not be done turning heads before the end of the summer.

The White Sox have proven capable of battling the best teams in the league. Chicago defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers 8-2 on Friday night before losing 7-1 on Saturday. The two teams will play for the series win on Sunday afternoon at Rate Field.

The White Sox will enter that contest with a 37-32 record, .5 games back from the Cleveland Guardians for first place in the American League Central. Chicago has a 2.5-game lead over the A’s for the final wild-card spot.

Per Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the White Sox plan to be “aggressive” before the trade deadline, looking to add pitching help for a roster that’s on the precipice of making the postseason. However, Chicago does not plan to go all-in at the deadline, hoping to keep together a young core that has seen 12 players make their MLB debut this spring.

“The most stunning aspect of the Chicago White Sox’s breakout year with an AL-best 31-18 record since April 17 – is that they have already had 12 players make their major-league debut this season,” Nightengale wrote.

“They entered the week with 37 victories and a chance to eclipse their entire win total from 2024 when they set an MLB record for futility with a 41-121 record. They plan to be aggressive at the trade deadline in their search for pitching, but not at the expense of parting with any of their top prospects as they build towards the future.”

More News: Chicago White Sox trade for prospects from the Philadelphia Phillies

Chicago White Sox have lots to do before making a trade

More News:  Chicago White Sox considering top prospect for MLB debut

The White Sox have another key series coming up this week after playing the Dodgers on Sunday. They’ll travel to play the New York Yankees for a three-game series beginning on Tuesday. It’s another measuring-stick series for Chicago before taking on the Cleveland Guardians at home for a three-game series beginning on June 22.

Those two series will tell us a lot about how the White Sox hope to keep the momentum from surprising spring going into the dog days of summer.

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The Chicago White Sox have been playing well and have some roster decisions to make. They have some players on the bench who could be on the chopping block when their injured players return. Chicago seemingly got ahead of things as they have traded away one of their players to the opposing league. Let’s take a closer look at who it is and what they were able to get back in return.

The Chicago White Sox traded Derek Hill to the Philadelphia Phillies for prospects

ESPN’s Jeff Passan is reporting that a trade between the White Sox and the Phillies took place on Thursday afternoon. The trade sees the White Sox send center fielder Derek Hill and international bonus money to the Phillies. In return, the White Sox receive outfield prospect Dylan Campbell and infield prospect Jose Colmenares. Neither prospect was ranked within the top 30 in Philadelphia’s organization. However, Chicago has been calling up prospects throughout the season. This move was a chance to recoup some prospect capital for their farm system.

Campbell is 23 years old and is currently in Double-A. The 5-foot-8 outfielder is posting a .693 OPS with seven homers, 31 RBI, 27 runs scored, and nine stolen bases. Colmenares is a 24-year-old shortstop in High-A who is hitting well. He is posting a .816 OPS with three home runs, 19 RBI, 22 runs scored, and five stolen bases.

In terms of trading away Hill, the team has a bevy of outfielders who can replace him on the field. Hill has been used as a fourth outfielder, but with Tristan Peters taking over as the everyday center fielder, Hill’s playing time has been zapped from what it was earlier this season for Chicago. There are a few options that the franchise needs to decide upon regarding that bench spot being filled on the 26-man roster.

Depending on what Chicago is looking for, these are potentially two players they can throw into a trade closer to the deadline. Neither Campbell nor Colmenares is a highly-touted prospect, but both have some chances of developing into good major leaguers. It will be intriguing to see what general manager Chris Getz has up his sleeve to better the franchise following this trade.

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The Chicago White Sox have been one of the youngest teams in baseball in the early stages of the season. They have not been afraid of calling up their minor league prospects to help the MLB team out. With the pitching for Chicago being a bit of a question mark, they are internally discussing a debut for one prospect. Let’s take a closer look at who it is and why they may make this move.

The Chicago White Sox may call up Hagen Smith this weekend

White Sox manager Will Venable made it known that the team is still undecided about who will start on Saturday. The team is considering Hagen Smith. Smith is the fourth-ranked prospect in the organization and the 47th-ranked prospect, per MLB Pipeline.

Smith has been pitching at a respectable level with the Triple-A Charlotte Knights. In 13 starts, he is 0-4 with a 3.78 ERA and a 1.34 WHIP in 47.2 innings. He has been pitching at an elite level, recording 72 strikeouts thus far. The southpaw pitcher has quickly climbed up the organization’s ranks as he was selected fifth overall in the 2024 MLB Draft.

He throws three pitches (fastball, slider, splitter), and his heater and slider are dominating hitters. This would be a massive test as Saturday’s game is against the Los Angeles Dodgers, one of the top offensive teams in the sport. Venable would also note that there is another option that the team uses on Saturday as a bullpen game while keeping Smith in the minors.

With the rainout on Thursday, there is a chance this conversation does not amount to anything. Now, the projected starting trio of Anthony Kay, Sean Burke, and Erick Fedde can line up for this series while using Monday’s off day to re-establish the rotation. It will be intriguing to see if Chicago continues to make more minor leaguers get their MLB debut this early into the season.

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It is June 12, 2026, and the Chicago White Sox are in first place in the American League Central Division. At 36-31, they hold a half-game lead over the Cleveland Guardians, and recently won both games they played against the Atlanta Braves (the third game was postponed due to weather), who have the best record in Major League Baseball.

Astonishingly, the White Sox have been able to continue winning baseball games over the last couple of weeks without Munetaka Murakami. The Japanese slugger is currently on the injured list with a hamstring strain. But while he may be on the shelf, there is an argument to be made that, out of all of their breakout players this season, he is the most important one in Chicago.

Munetaka Murakami is the biggest breakout star on the Chicago White Sox

Indeed, there is no shortage of players who have been pleasant surprises on the White Sox roster this year. Notably, Davis Martin has come out of nowhere to be the ace of Chicago’s pitching staff. Miguel Vargas has finally realized the slugging potential the White Sox saw him in. What is more, several rookie players, aside from Murakami, have made significant impacts on the team so far in 2026.

But Bleacher Report believes the rookie slugger from Japan is their biggest breakout star:

“Munetaka Murakami is currently on the injured list with a Grade 2 right hamstring strain, with the prognosis at the time of injury in late May being that he would miss four to six weeks.

“It was an unfortunate speed bump during what had been an excellent rookie season. Across his first 200 MLB at-bats, he has clubbed 20 home runs and posted a .938 OPS, while also driving in 41 runs.

“There were some concerns about how Murakami would handle velocity in the majors. He’s been just fine, making the two-year, $34 million contract he signed this past offseason look like highway robbery for the White Sox. They would be wise to try to extend that deal sooner rather than later.”

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• Top White Sox outfielder from 2026 international class off to a torrid start
• White Sox named top trade destination for elite slugger
• White Sox finally get well-deserved recognition in latest MLB power rankings

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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Back in January, the Chicago White Sox handed out more $1.6 and $1.5 million dollars to catcher Fernando Graterol and outfielder Sebastián Romero, the headlining Venezuelan prospects from their 2026 International class. As expected, both are starting their professional careers in the Dominican Summer League (DSL), which kicked off earlier this month on June 2.

Since that season has started, Romero, who signed for slightly less, has been the prospect making all the noise. Through just eight games, the 17 year old left-handed batter has belted five home runs and hit one double. With nine total hits on the young season, this gives him an absurd on-base plus slugging percentage of 1.435.

Sebastian Romero’s power surge offers hope of breaking the Chicago White Sox string of misses on recent International signees

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The Chicago White Sox keep winning against all odds, and they are shockingly in first place in the AL Central as we are inching closer and closer to the halfway point of the season.

Perhaps it’s time to take the White Sox seriously, even with top slugger Munetaka Murakami sidelined with a hamstring injury. They just took two games from the Atlanta Braves before the final matchup of their three-game set was rained out, and since and 11-17 start, Chicago has gone 25-14.

But while the White Sox are a tremendous story and certainly appear to be legitimate playoff contenders, they still have some holes that need to be addressed.

We know that Chicago’s starting rotation is a problem once you get past Davis Martin and Sean Burke, and it could also stand to add some lineup depth. Even with Murakami healthy, the South Siders’ lineup is very top-heavy, so they could use some reinforcements.

On the latter note, Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer has dubbed the White Sox a top landing spot for Minnesota Twins catcher Ryan Jeffers.

Chicago White Sox named top trade destination for Ryan Jeffers

Chicago desperately needs more offense from the catcher position. Starting backstop Edgar Quero owns a .498 OPS on the season, and while backup Drew Romo has hit five home runs over 89 plate appearances, he is batting just .158.

The White Sox have been waiting on Kyle Teel to return from a hamstring issue that has kept him on the shelf since the World Baseball Classic, but he isn’t expected back until sometime next month. So could Chicago try and swing a trade for Jeffers in the meantime?

Rymer has tabbed the Sox among a few ballclubs that represent logical destinations for Jeffers, who is currently on the injured list himself while recovering from a hamate bone fracture. But prior to his IL stint, the 28-year-old had been slashing .295/.408/.541 with seven homers and 26 RBI across 148 trips to the dish.

It has certainly been a career year for Jeffers, although he has always been a very productive offensive catcher, owning a lifetime .755 OPS.

The caveat is that Jeffers is slated to hit free agency after the season, so the White Sox could be paying a substantial price for a rental. And the Twins would almost surely ask for more from Chicago considering the two teams are AL Central rivals.

What would be interesting is if the White Sox acquired Jeffers and put him at DH. That would give them one heck of a lineup with a healthy Teel behind the plate.

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It is June 11, the none other than the Chicago White Sox sit alone atop the American League Central Division. At 36-31, they have a half-game lead over the Cleveland Guardians, who now have last four games in a row. Meanwhile, Chicago has taken the first two games of their series against the Atlanta Braves, who own the best record in Major League Baseball.

For the past several weeks, though, national writers and analysts have been hesitant to give the White Sox their flowers, sure that they would come back down to earth at some point.

But they haven’t.

The Chicago White Sox come in 13th in latest MLB power rankings

Last week, ESPN had Chicago ranked 13th in the power rankings. They are in that same slot again this week, but with an immensely positive description:

“It’s starting to feel like a special season in the South side of Chicago, and the clearest evidence occurred Tuesday night. Braden Montgomery, another promising prospect acquired in the Garrett Crochet trade, hit a walk-off home run in his major league debut, in a win that pushed the White Sox a half-game out of first place in the AL Central.

“Before Montgomery, the White Sox had already received inspiring performances from other young players like Miguel Vargas, Davis Martin, Colson Montgomery, Tristan Peters and, of course, Munetaka Murakami. The future looks bright, but the present does too.”

Before the season started, very few, if anyone, saw the White Sox being as good as they are. After three straight seasons with 100+ losses, fans just wanted to see a semblance of improvement.

Needless to say, they got all of that and more. This year, Chicago should have multiple players named to the All-Star team, and they are mostly all players that are tied to the team for years to come.

The future, indeed, is very bright on the South Side.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox linked to trade for star player from AL Central rival
• White Sox linked to trade with unlikely starting pitcher
• White Sox Braden Montgomery makes history in MLB debut

For More Chicago Sports

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The Chicago White Sox will be one of the most interesting teams to monitor heading into the MLB trade deadline. The White Sox were expected to be cellar dwellers once again this season, but instead, they are now in first place in the AL Central.

Given Chicago’s shocking success, general manager Chris Getz could decide to buy before Aug. 3. The White Sox are a solid team for sure, but they clearly have some holes that need to be filled. They could use another bat or two in their lineup, and their pitching staff could definitely use some assistance.

But will Chicago actually decide to pull the trigger on some moves in the coming weeks?

MLB insider Robert Murray thinks that the White Sox need to be careful and should be taking “the long-term view” when it comes to the trade deadline, which makes sense. They aren’t ready to win a World Series just yet, and while they are undoubtedly a fun ballclub, their success may also partially be due to playing in such a weak division.

That being said, Murray does think Chicago may look to make some patchwork trades to fill some gaps, and he has identified a very intriguing solution: Kansas City Royals pitcher Michael Wacha.

Chicago White Sox connected to trade for Michael Wacha

Would the Royals really trade Wacha — or any of their top movable pieces — to an AL Central foe? If they can get the best deal, perhaps, and Murray listed Wacha among numerous starters who could pique the White Sox’s interest.

“Perhaps they can snag a pitcher from the Red Sox or, say, a Reid Detmers from the Angels or a Michael Wacha from the Royals. Maybe an outfielder with one of those teams. Who knows. Surely Getz will explore anything,” Murray wrote.

Wacha has logged a 3.44 ERA through 13 starts this season, allowing 66 hits and while registering 67 strikeouts over 81 innings of work. His ERA has been in the 3s ever since 2022, so he has consistently been a solid pitcher for years running now.

The 34-year-old began his big-league career with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2013 and looked like an emerging superstar, making the All-Star team in his third season. However, injuries derailed the right-hander for an extended period of time, and it was looking like he would never regain his footing.

But Wacha has been able to remain moderately healthy for the past five seasons and has rediscovered his mojo, utilizing terrific command of the strike zone to become a consistent and steady presence in his team’s starting rotation.

Given that the White Sox have no reliable options past Davis Martin and Sean Burke, acquiring Wacha would be great … if Kansas City would be alright with that.

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The Chicago White Sox have been surprising a lot of people throughout the first half of the season. With the 2026 All-Star Game voting going on, people are discussing who deserves a spot on the All-Star team. The White Sox have been clicking and could see a few players be recognized for their outstanding first half of the year. Let’s take a closer look at who one outlet believes will represent the South Side in Philadelphia for the 2026 All-Star Game.

The Chicago White Sox have a superstar in Munetaka Murakami

The Athletic’s Jim Bowden, a former MLB general manager, wrote an article discussing his All-Star picks thus far. One of the more obvious selections he had was at first base with White Sox’s star Munetaka Murakami. Below is what he wrote about the rookie slugger:

“Murakami was leading the league with 20 homers when he suffered a Grade 2 right hamstring strain. There is a chance he could be back in time for the All-Star Game and he’s a deserving participant if he’s healthy enough to play.”

Murakami had a hot start to his MLB career. He is posting a .938 OPS with 20 homers, 41 RBI, 43 runs scored, and a stolen base during his rookie season. Murakami has not played since May 29 when he suffered a hamstring strain, but there is a chance he returns before the Midsummer Classic. He certainly deserves it as one of the best first basemen in the American League, with Nick Kurtz and Ben Rice.

Miguel Vargas is surprising a lot of people this season

One of the more surprising names to appear on this list comes from the White Sox as well. This would be a surprise if you asked at the beginning of the season, but third baseman Miguel Vargas is currently in the mix for an All-Star spot. Below is Bowden’s explanation as to why:

“Originally on my just-missed list, Vargas gets a deserving nod now that [Aaron] Judge will likely have to miss the Midsummer Classic… Vargas is finally reaching the potential he showed as a prospect in the Dodgers’ chain, hitting for power, taking his walks and making things happen on the bases. He has a 142 OPS+ and ranks in the 97th percentile in chase rate and 88th percentile in Barrel rate.”

This would make White Sox history, as Jimmy Dykes (1933) is the only player for the franchise to start an All-Star Game at third base. It will be an uphill battle, going against Jose Ramirez and Junior Caminero, but he has a shot with how he’s played thus far. Vargas has an .859 OPS with 15 homers, 41 RBI, and nine stolen bases. That’s not considering he only committed three errors defensively as well. Vargas expects to be an All-Star nonetheless for the first time in his career.

Davis Martin is looking like a legitimate ace

Bowden is succinct in his evaluation of the only pitcher that the White Sox have on his list. Right-handed starter Davis Martin is one of the starting pitchers he selected, and he wrote the following about it:

“Martin has been a real bright spot for the surprising White Sox, with a 2.61 ERA over 12 starts.”

Martin has been looking sharp and a major reason is his ability to keep the ball in the park. After allowing 20 in 142.2 innings in 2025, he has only given up three through 72.1 innings. Keeping the ball in the park obviously is a massive strength and keeps him in games longer. Martin could be a starting pitcher in the All-Star Game, but it will be intriguing to see if the American League coaching staff decides he has done enough to be named.

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The Chicago White Sox are shockingly smack dab in the middle of the American League playoff race, and even with Munetaka Murakami on the shelf, they are staying afloat.

However, it’s pretty clear that if the White Sox want to make a serious run during the second half of the season, they’ll need to make some adjustments. And while adding another bat would be nice, Chicago’s pitching staff has been the bigger issue.

The White Sox have very limited depth in their starting rotation. Once you get past Davis Martin and Sean Burke, there really isn’t much there, and it’s not like they have any exciting internal options on deck.

Whether or not Chicago decides to buy at the MLB trade deadline remains to be seen, but if the White Sox are serious about contending here in 2026, there is no question they must add at least one arm to bolster their staff.

On that subject, Noah Phalen of Southside Showdown has pitched a surprising potential trade target that no one would have anticipated: Colorado Rockies right-hander Tomoyuki Sugano.

Chicago White Sox linked to trade for Tomoyuki Sugano

Phalen mentioned several names as possibilities for the White Sox, but he specifically singled out Sugano due to the fact that he has posted respectable numbers in spite of being in the worst pitching confines in all of baseball.

Sugano has logged a 4.08 ERA and 1.288 WHIP this season, allowing 68 hits while registering 39 strikeouts over 68.1 innings of work. Not surprisingly, the 36-year-old has been much better away from Coors Field, where he has posted a 3.62 ERA and 1.179 WHIP.

There are some concerns with his profile, however.

Sugano’s ground-ball rate is only at 37.6 percent this season, which isn’t great for a pitcher who doesn’t strike hitters out. He is also allowing a barrel rate of 15 percent, and only 9.3 percent of the contact he has surrendered has been soft contact.

It should also be noted that Sugano was not exactly impressive during his debut big-league campaign with the Baltimore Orioles in 2025, pitching to the tune of a 4.64 ERA while giving up 33 home runs. And that was only in 157 frames.

If Sugano comes incredibly cheap, perhaps a trade would be worth a shot for the Chicago, but I’m not so sure that he is the target the White Sox should be seeking.

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Chicago White Sox rookie Braden Montgomery had a Major League debut that he will remember forever.

The White Sox’s No.2 prospect (21st-best prospect in Major League Baseball) collected two hits in his five trips to the plate. Montgomery’s first hit came off Atlanta Braves right-hander Grant Holmes.

Montgomery also collected his first home run, a walk-off home run in the bottom of the 10th inning (6-5). The 23-year-old clobbered a 0-1 changeup (90 miles per hour) that Braves closer Raisel Iglesias left over the middle of the plate, which he deposited into left field.

According to Elias Sports and Sarah Langs, Montgomery is the fifth player in Major League Baseball history to hit his first home run as a walk-off home run in his MLB debut. The four others include: Carlos Perez (2015) with the Los Angeles Angels, Miguel Cabrera (2003) with the Florida (Miami) Marlins, Josh Bard (2002) with the Cleveland Indians (Guardians) and Billy Parker (1971) with the California (Los Angeles) Angels.

Walk-off home run in MLB debut, MLB history:

6/9/26 Braden Montgomery
5/5/2015 Carlos Perez
6/20/2003 Miguel Cabrera
8/23/2002 Josh Bard
9/9/1971 Billy Parker                   
                     
FIFTH EVER!!!

h/t @EliasSports https://t.co/uIYByqx4TQ

— Sarah Langs (@SlangsOnSports) June 10, 2026

Braden Montgomery was in disbelief that he had such a debut with the Chicago White Sox

Mobbed by his teammates at the plate after walking it off, the Des Moines, Iowa native was in disbelief at what he had done, calling the experience “unreal” at his locker.

More White Sox News: White Sox Munetaka Murakami is in line to bring home some valuable hardware

“That was … I still don’t know what to say,” said Montgomery to MLB.com’s Scott Merkin, standing in front of his locker after emerging unscathed from the postgame frenzy. “That was unreal.”

Montgomery’s teammate, closer Grant Taylor, echoed his teammate, also calling the experience “unreal.”

“It was unreal,” echoed reliever Grant Taylor, who earned the victory by allowing one unearned run over two innings of relief. “That’s probably the coolest debut of all-time.”

Montgomery had been impressive at both Double-A Birmingham and Triple-A Charlotte, which got him the call-up to the big leagues. Between the two levels, Montgomery batted .313 with a 1.035 OPS in Double-A, while hitting .315 and had an OPS of .912 at Triple-A.

Playing right field in his debut, Montgomery can expect to play there and center field (when Tristin Peters needs a day off) for the foreseeable future. Especially with Austin Hays out for longer than expected, as he was transferred to the 60-day injured list on Tuesday.

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The Chicago White Sox have had a black hole in right field due to injuries and inconsistent play. Outfielders Austin Hays (left calf strain) and Everson Pereira (right pectoral strain) have been on the injured list since late April and early May.

With Hays and Pereira not likely to return anytime soon, the White Sox are opting to call up one of their top prospects to replace the void created by them.

The Chicago White Sox are calling up top prospect Braden Montgomery from Triple-A Charlotte

The White Sox open a three-game series versus the Atlanta Braves on Tuesday night and will have one new face joining the team, outfielder Braden Montgomery. According to Sox Machine’s James Fegan, the White Sox are calling up their No. 2 prospect and the 21st-best prospect in MLB, Braden Montgomery, to the big leagues after a solid season in the minor leagues.

More White Sox News: White Sox Munetaka Murakami is in line to bring home some valuable hardware

CBS Sports Matt Snyder first reported there were “whispers” that Montgomery would receive a call-up early Tuesday afternoon.

Montgomery, a former first-round draft pick (12th overall) of the Boston Red Sox in 2024, was one of the prospects in the deal that sent left-hander Garret Crochet back to the Red Sox. Since joining the White Sox farm system, the 23-year-old has done nothing but hit, posting a .284 batting average and .858 OPS in his two seasons in the minor leagues.

This season proved to be no different, and the Des Moines, Iowa native has been impressive at both Double-A Birmingham and Triple-A Charlotte. Between the two levels, Montgomery is batting .314 with a .970 OPS and 10 home runs.

The White Sox have deployed Montgomery in right field (16 games, 14 starts) and center field (31 games and starts) this season, but he will likely be playing in right field with the big league club. The emergence of outfielder Tristin Peters (.307 batting average and a .813 OPS) will prevent him from playing in center field.

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The Chicago White Sox haven’t been the team since first baseman Munetaka Murakami was placed on the injured list. After going 18-10 in May, the White Sox are 2-4 to begin June.

Murakami has proven to be the White Sox’s best hitter and one of the best hitters in baseball. Despite being on the injured list, the 26-year-old is third in Major League Baseball in home runs (20) and is fifth in walks (44).

Chicago White Sox Munetaka Murakami is a favorite to win the American League Rookie of the Year Award

Given the star power permeating the American and National Leagues, the Rookie of the Year race will be tight. So many rookies are deserving, but only one can win the award, and Murakami has one of the best chances.

More White Sox News: Chicago White Sox hope Edgar Quero can reverse his poor season

In a poll conducted by MLB.com of 32 experts, Murakami finished in second place to Detroit Tigers infielder Kevin McGonigle. Murakami received 119 total vote points with 11 first-place votes, while McGonigle received 120 total vote points and 14 first-place votes.

“Murakami has been on the injured list since May 30 with a right hamstring strain and is expected to be out at least until the end of June,” wrote MLB.com’s Jason Foster. “But he did plenty before the injury to become a front-runner for the AL ROY award. The lefty slugger still leads all MLB rookies with 20 homers and a .938 OPS, and led the group with 41 RBIs entering play Monday.”

McGonigle is Murakami’s main competition. But he also has someone like Cleveland Guardians left-hander Parker Messick nipping on his heels. Messick is leading American League rookies in wins (six), innings (75) and strikeouts (78), and was second in ERA (2.40) and WHIP (1.07).

Murakami won’t return until the end of June. But this will still give him a couple of months to add on to his numbers.

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The Chicago White Sox have been one of the biggest surprises in baseball this season, as they are 34-31 and firmly in playoff contention with the trade deadline approaching. This even though the White Sox had been one of the MLB’s worst teams for the preceding three years.

It has been a stark change in Chicago, and it’s thanks much in part to the terrific job the front office has done accumulating impressive young talent.

We already know about Munetaka Murakami, who is looking more and more like the steal of the offseason (although he is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury). But the White Sox have also put some very intriguing young pieces around him, such as shortstop Colson Montgomery and third baseman Miguel Vargas.

Montgomery and Vargas will both be with Chicago for the foreseeable future, but Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller wonders if the White Sox should start trying to extend them now, which would certainly be a jarring move from an organization that hasn’t exactly spent significant money in recent years.

Chicago White Sox urged to make big moves with Colson Montgomery, Miguel Vargas

Miller feels that Chicago should follow the Athletics’ model and start extending their young players now.

“The White Sox should take a page out of the Athletics book and start locking up young core pieces like Colson Montgomery, Miguel Vargas and perhaps even top prospect Caleb Bonemer,” Miller wrote.

The Athletics signed youngsters Jacob Wilson and Tyler Soderstrom to surprising contract extensions and also offered Nick Kurtz a lucrative deal before the start of 2026. Clearly, the A’s are trying to make some headway before moving to Las Vegas, but that doesn’t mean Chicago can’t do something similar.

Both Montgomery and Vargas appear to be legitimate long-term pieces for the South Siders.

Montgomery owns an .801 OPS and has already homered 16 times this season — his second big-league campaign — while also playing tremendous defense at short. Meanwhile, Vargas is slashing .242/.370/.489 with 15 home runs. His defense is certainly less stellar than Montgomery’s but at least the White Sox know his bat is solid.

Chicago definitely appears to be building something very positive moving forward, but it’s important that it maintains its momentum. That means spending some dollars, and part of that could be in the form of inking its young, budding stars to long-term contracts. The Sox could then even save money over the long haul by avoiding arbitration.

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The Chicago White Sox are having an unbelievable first few months of the 2026 season. They are in contention for a playoff spot, as they hold the second AL Wild Card spot at this moment. Chicago has a lot of young talent, but could look to add some experience ahead of the Aug. 3 trade deadline. What can the White Sox trade away? Let’s take a closer look at the team’s best trade chip right now.

The Chicago White Sox can trade some prospects for a solid boost to the MLB roster

MLB had each of its team insiders explain the team’s biggest trade chip ahead of the trade deadline. Scott Merkin explained how, for the White Sox, it is their prospect depth.

“The White Sox look to be legitimate American League postseason contenders. Thus, any veterans viewed in February as possible trade chips for an ongoing rebuild will be needed for the push forward to October. But as far as the young core goes, general manager Chris Getz won’t tear apart what they have meticulously built just to jump up for one season. They would move players from their system in return for players who won’t just help in 2026 but also in ’27 and beyond.”

Chicago has a lot of young talent, but it can be aggressive in the trade market. Getz has done a great job in acquiring minor league talent that is getting close to being MLB-ready. Not all of the prospects are going to be staying with the South Side, so some could be used to get players on the trade block this year.

The White Sox could use a starting pitcher with experience, so could they be in the Sandy Alcantara or Tarik Skubal trade sweepstakes? They could also get some more bats with players like Rafael Devers or a trade in the city for Matt Shaw. It will be intriguing to see which prospects they are interested in moving and which players the front office believes would help the roster continue to win games.

The post What is the biggest trade piece for the Chicago White Sox this season? appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago White Sox have done a tremendous job of expediting their rebuild, and we are seeing the fruits of their labor this season with the team sitting at 34-31 and firmly in contention in the AL Central race.

But that doesn’t necessarily mean that every single White Sox player has turned to gold in 2026.

Take Jordan Hicks, for example, whom Chicago acquired in a trade with the Boston Red Sox back in February. The White Sox took Hicks off the Red Sox’s hands in what was essentially a salary dump by Boston, hoping that he would rediscover his form from several years ago when he appeared to be developing into a decent pitcher.

That certainly hasn’t happened this season, and now, Chicago is stuck with Hicks. At least for now.

Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller recently ran down a list of every team’s player that is most likely to be DFA’d here in 2026, and for the White Sox, the answer was easy: it was Hicks.

Chicago White Sox could cut the cord with Jordan Hicks

Chicago sent pitching prospect Gage Ziehl to the Red Sox in exchange for Hicks, David Sandlin and a couple of players to be named later. Boston sent some cash to the South Siders in the deal, too, but not enough to make up for the disaster that Hicks has been.

“Hicks is presently on the IL with a lat strain and the White Sox still owe him another $8M next season. Factor in the $4M per season that Boston retained when it sent him to Chicago and he actually has the third-highest salary on this roster,” Miller wrote.

The White Sox rank 28th in the majors in payroll, so the fact that Hicks is getting paid more than all but two players on the ballclub is ugly.

“But after both the Giants and Red Sox found a way to trade him away in the past calendar year, the White Sox might just throw in the towel on Hicks if he returns from the shelf every bit as erratic as he had been before the injury: 17.2 IP, 17 BB, 3 WP, 1 HBP,” Miller concluded.

Hicks last appeared in a game on May 20 and does not have a concrete timetable for his return, but Chicago would probably be better off not allowing him into a game the rest of the way.

The 29-year-old owns a lifetime 4.46 ERA and pitched to the tune of a 6.95 ERA as recently as last season, when he split the 2025 campaign between San Francisco and Boston. There really isn’t much of anything to like about Hicks’ profile at this point.

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Over the last several years, the Chicago White Sox have not had very many players worthy of being an MLB All-Star. Last season, then-rookie starting pitcher Shane Smith was chosen to represent the White Sox in the Mid-summer Classic, but an argument could be made he was among the worst All-Stars on either team.

Now, Smith is not even on the Major League roster. He was demoted after three awful starts at the beginning of the season, and numerous players in Chicago have emerged as candidates to represent the White Sox at the All-Star Game. For the first time in a while, they may even have multiple players named, and perhaps one or two starters voted in by fans.

Munetaka Murakami named the most fun Chicago White Sox All-Star choice

Early on, it became clear that rookie slugger Munetaka Murakami is everything that the White Sox hoped he would be, and even more. While he does strike out quite a bit, his power and ability to get on base at a high rate is undeniable. Through 57 games played, he is hitting .240/.378/.560 with 20 home runs and 41 RBI.

Despite the fact that he is currently on the injured list with a strained hamstring, MLB’s latest power rankings name him as the most “fun” player for fans to vote for when it comes to the All-Star Game:

“There are a lot of factors in the White Sox’s stunning success so far this year, but the obvious symbol and manifestation of them is Munetaka Murakami, who may be injured right now but has been as purely enjoyable to watch as we all hoped he’d be.”

Given Murakami’s international popularity, he still may be voted in as a starter by fans even though he will have missed weeks of games by the time his hamstring has healed.

This being said, the White Sox finally have multiple players that have a case to be All-Stars along with him. Davis Martin is having a stellar season thus far, and Miguel Vargas leads AL third basemen in multiple offensive categories.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox could dump exciting player amid newest development
• White Sox outfield reinforcements are one step closer to the Majors
• White Sox could trade these 2 players before MLB trade deadline

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

The post Chicago White Sox most obvious All-Star candidate revealed in latest MLB power rankings appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago White Sox fell to the Philadelphia Phillies on Sunday night, losing the first series of what is sure to be an early gauntlet in their schedule. However, the offense has been relatively competitive over the last 10 games, a pleasant surprise after Munetaka Murakami went down with an injury.

At the end of May, Murakami landed on the injured list with a grade-two hamstring strain. The injury was expected to keep him out for 4-6 weeks, meaning that he is now 3-5 weeks away from returning.

But since he got hurt, Chicago has held serve in the American League.

MLB Network reveals how Munetaka Murakami is still affecting the Chicago White Sox

In 57 games played this season, Murakami is hitting .240/.378/.560 with 20 home runs and 41 RBI. The power that so many Major League Baseball teams doubted would translate from Japan, indeed, has. Even though he has not played in over a week, Murakami still ranks among the American League and Major League leaders in home runs.

And even though he has been out, the White Sox have not lost any ground in division or AL standings. They are still one of just five AL teams with a record over .500.

Mark DeRosa of MLB Network credits this to how Murakami changed the way Chicago has viewed itself this year.

“.240, 20 bombs, a .940 OPS, but’s bigger than that,” DeRosa said. “This dude changed their thoughts. He showed up this Spring and they’re like, ‘Oh my God, we have a superstar! We have a guy whose balls don’t want to land. So if we do what we’re capable of doing, and we let him get his 40 bombs, we have something!’

“I think that he just expedited their thought process in everything.”

Prior to 2026, the White Sox had lost more than 100 games in each of their previous three seasons. This included a Major League record 121 losses in 2024. No one expected Chicago to make any noise in 2026, much less be one of the best teams in the American League.

But here they are. Even without Murakami, they have been able to hover around .500 as they face stiff competition. If they can continue to do so until he comes back, Chicago will continue to surprise people later in the season as well.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox could dump exciting player amid newest development
• White Sox outfield reinforcements are one step closer to the Majors
• White Sox could trade these 2 players before MLB trade deadline

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox continue to stay afloat in spite of losing Munetaka Murakami for the next month-plus, but there is no question that their offense could use some assistance now that his bat is no longer in the lineup.

The White Sox lacked offensive depth even with Murakami healthy, so now that he is sidelined, things could become dire for Chicago pretty quickly.

On the bright side, outfielder Everson Pereira has begun a rehab assignment down at Triple-A as he makes his way back from a pectoral injury. He has been out since late April, so getting his bat back will definitely be nice.

The issue is that the White Sox will have to make a roster move to accommodate Pereira’s return when he is ready. What exactly will they do in that regard?

Well, it will likely come down to Derek Hill or Rikuu Nishida, and Noah Phalen of Southside Showdown sees one simple solution here.

Chicago White Sox urged to demote Rikuu Nishida

Because Hill is a 30-year-old veteran, Phalen feels that the best move would be for Chicago to demote Nishida back to Triple-A.

“If I had to guess, I think the White Sox value Derek Hill enough as a veteran presence that they’ll keep him around and option Nishida to Triple-A. It’s a move that can always be undone later if it doesn’t work out and it gives them an opportunity to see if Everson Pereira can be an everyday player at the big league level,” Phalen wrote.

Nishida has played in 11 games for the White Sox this season, going 6-for-27 with a couple of RBI. He is a terrific defensive player who also flashed some impressive offense down in the minor leagues, having slashed .323/.449/.384 with a homer and 12 RBI between Double-A and Triple-A this year before being called up to the majors.

The 25-year-old, who has even drawn comparisons to Japanese legend Ichiro Suzuki, stole 40 bases at Double-A last season and swiped 49 bags between Single-A and Double-A in 2024.

There is no question that Nishida is an exciting player oozing with potential, but for now, the most prudent decision for the White Sox would probably be to send the 5-foot-6 speedster back to the minors to further hone his craft.

That would then allow Chicago to get Pereira — who has very impressive offensive potential himself — into the lineup.

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The Chicago White Sox outfield has been one of the club’s biggest weaknesses this season. While Samuel Antonacci and Tristan Peters have both been productive offensively, posting 123 and 115 wRC+ marks, respectively, neither is known for providing significant power.

That’s become an increasingly important issue for a White Sox lineup that has relied heavily on home-run production throughout the year. With Munetaka Murakami sidelined and a daunting stretch of games looming on the schedule, Chicago is in need of additional thump from its outfield group now more than ever.

That said, help may be on the way soon as Everson Pereira is starting an injury rehab assignment tonight, June 5, with Class Triple-A in Charlotte. Pereira had been sidelined since April 29 with a pectoral strain.

Chicago White Sox will soon welcome power-hitting outfielder Everson Pereira back

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The Chicago White Sox have been arguably the best story in baseball this season, as they are sitting at 33-29 and smack dab in the middle of the American League playoff race in spite of being one of the worst teams in the sport for multiple years prior.

Whether or not the White Sox’s incredible run is sustainable remains to be seen, and the fact that Munetaka Murakami is now sidelined for the next month-plus due to a hamstring injury could ultimately upend their postseason push. Right now, however, Chicago has to be respected as a playoff contender.

So, what does that mean for the White Sox’s trade deadline? Will they be buyers? Sellers? Will they do a little bit of both?

Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly isn’t so sure, actually leaning more toward Chicago standing pat with a couple of minor moves here and there. But he did zero in on a pair of players the White Sox could look to move before Aug. 3.

And don’t worry: Murakami isn’t one of them.

Chicago White Sox could move two players before the MLB trade deadline

Kelly feels that Chicago may look to pursue a rental starting pitcher to fill out its needy rotation, but he also thinks the Southsiders could look to cash in on a couple of lower-tier veterans.

“Even if the White Sox fade, general manager Chris Getz probably won’t be inclined to consider offers for some of the budding core pieces of the team, like slugger Munetaka Murakami or RHP Davis Martin. Reliever Sean Newcomb and outfielder Austin Hays are two veteran rentals who could be dealt if the White Sox end up as sellers, but both are rentals unlikely to bring back a noteworthy return,” Kelly wrote.

Chicago signed both Newcomb and Hays in free agency, so it would make sense for the Sox to flip both of them at the deadline.

I actually think a bullpen-needy team might be willing to part with something decent for Newcomb, who pitched to the tune of a 2.50 ERA, 2.85 FIP and 1.028 WHIP this season. He has allowed just one home run and owns a very solid 3.56 K/BB ratio thanks to some much improved control.

Hays has been sidelined since the beginning of May due to a calf strain and barely produced in the 12 games he has played, but he slashed .266/.315/.453 with the Cincinnati Reds last season and is known as a lefty masher, so perhaps a team in need of a platoon bat would be interested in acquiring him, as well.

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The Chicago White Sox salvaged the series finale against the Minnesota Twins on Wednesday, avoiding the sweep. They are now 33-29 on the season and have won seven of their last ten games. Indeed, the White Sox have been one of the biggest surprises in Major League Baseball this season, competing in a year no one expected them to.

Currently, Chicago has the fourth-best record in the American League, and is one of just five AL teams with a winning record. They are just 2.5 games back of the Cleveland Guardians for first place in the AL Central, and would be in the postseason as a Wild Card if the season ended today.

The Chicago White Sox face a gauntlet coming up in June

Recently, ESPN released their weekly MLB power rankings. After being ranked just 18th last week, the White Sox shot up to 13th this time around. However, there is a caution in their explanation:

“Coming off one of the most successful months the White Sox have had in years, things are looking up on the South Side. Chicago’s 18-10 mark gave it the third-best May winning percentage in MLB, as it ranked fifth in run differential. The White Sox dominated at Rate Field, going 13-3 and averaging six runs per contest. As the season bends toward summer, they face a brutal stretch of their schedule in the coming weeks.

“After three games at Minnesota, the White Sox visit the Phillies, return home for back-to-back series against the Braves and Dodgers, then head out for three games at Yankee Stadium. Are the White Sox for real? Chances are we’ll know the answer to that three weeks from now.”

The Phillies are 32-29 on the season and boast some stellar starting pitching. For Chicago, the key to winning will be to keep Philadelphia’s bats quiet. Their 236 runs scored this season are the second-fewest in Major League Baseball.

The Braves and Dodgers are the two best teams in MLB, record wise. How the White Sox play on that six-game home stand will tell a great deal about how much of their early hype is for real.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox top trade deadline target identified by MLB insider
• Overlooked White Sox veteran is catching fire at the right time
• Munetaka Murakami takes home AL Award

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox are one of the more interesting teams to monitor heading into the MLB trade deadline. Will they buy? Will they sell? Will they do a little bit of both?

The White Sox are in an even more uncomfortable position now that Munetaka Murakami will be sidelined for the next month-plus due to a hamstring injury, which could absolutely affect their trade deadline strategy. After all, you have to imagine Murakami’s absence could cause Chicago to plummet in the standings.

But if the White Sox manage to stay afloat, they may look to pull the trigger on some players who are under club control for the next several years.

Chicago definitely needs help everywhere, but its primary need seems to be starting pitching, as things get dicey once you get past Davis Martin and Sean Burke. But who will the South Siders target in that department between now and Aug. 3?

ESPN’s Jeff Passan has identified who he feels would be a perfect fit: Los Angeles Angels pitcher Reid Detmers.

Chicago White Sox linked to trade for Reid Detmers

The Angels are already out of contention and will almost certainly be selling, so Detmers could represent a viable option for the White Sox.

“The weakness is starting pitching depth. Is Chicago good enough to chase a free agent to be like [Freddy] Peralta? Probably not. But a starter with multiple years of control, like Detmers — who would be a perfect fit…” Passan wrote.

Detmers is an intriguing trade target, to say the least.

The 26-year-old has logged a 4.63 ERA through 12 starts this season, but his peripherals indicate he has been pitching much better than his ERA suggests. He owns a 2.98 FIP while averaging 10.9 strikeouts per nine innings, and his 3.73 K/BB ratio is also solid. His xERA is 2.92, and he has actually been a 2.0 WAR player thus far in 2026.

The problem for Detmers is that his peripherals have always exceeded his actual production ever since he entered the big leagues in 2021, so you have to wonder if it’s one of those things where it will just never match.

Detmers lays claim to a lifetime 4.75 ERA and 3.96 FIP and was even moved to the bullpen in 2025. But perhaps Chicago can get the most out of the left-hander?

The post Chicago White Sox’s top trade deadline target identified by MLB insider appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago White Sox face a daunting challenge this month. Not only will they be without rookie standout Munetaka Murakami, as he recovers from a hamstring strain, but they also must do so while navigating one of their toughest stretches of the season. June’s schedule features series against the Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, and Cleveland Guardians, giving the White Sox little margin for error as they attempt to stay competitive against some of baseball’s top contenders.

That said, the White Sox will need continued production and home runs from their everyday players if they hope to navigate this difficult stretch successfully. One player who has done his part recently is Andrew Benintendi. The veteran outfielder has been one of the team’s hottest hitters over the past week, providing a much-needed spark in the middle of the lineup at a time when Chicago can least afford offensive struggles.

Chicago White Sox veteran Andrew Benintendi is heating up at the plate

On May 25, Benintendi entered play carrying a .226 batting average. Just seven games later, he has raised that mark to .240, a notable jump this deep into the season. The veteran has recorded hits in five of his last seven games, highlighted by three multi-hit performances. During that stretch, he has also launched three home runs, drawn five walks, and driven in six runs, providing the White Sox with a much-needed offensive boost.

This recent hot streak has helped Benintendi move closer to the player he has been throughout most of his major league career. Across 11 seasons, Benintendi owns a .266 career batting average, and his recent surge has begun to push his numbers back toward those established norms. Just as importantly, his OPS+ has climbed to 98, approaching his career mark of 104 and signaling that he is trending back toward being an above-average offensive contributor.

With Murakami sidelined, the White Sox desperately need veterans like Benintendi to shoulder a larger share of the offensive burden. Maintaining this level of production may become more challenging without Murakami’s presence in the lineup, but Chicago will need Benintendi’s bat to remain hot if it hopes to navigate a difficult month successfully.

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The Chicago White Sox have far exceeded any and all expectations so far this season. After three consecutive years in which they lost 100 or more games, they currently sit at 32-29. And while that record may not seem impressive on the surface, consider this: if Chicago goes 10-91 the rest of the way, they will finish with a better record than they had in 2024.

Not only that, but the White Sox are just one of five teams in the American League that currently has a winning record.

Indeed, things are changing on the south side, and the buzz started early in the off-season when Chicago was able to sign Munetaka Murakami.

Chicago White Sox slugger Munetaka Murakami has won the AL Rookie of the Month Award

Murakami, the Japanese superstar, was expected to get a massive contract when he decided to come over to play Major League Baseball. However, MLB teams were scared away by his strikeout numbers and did not seriously pursue him.

This allowed the White Sox to ink Murakami to a two-year $34 million contract, and he has been worth every penny.

Thus far in 2026, Murakami is hitting .240/.378/.560 with 20 home runs 41 RBI. On Wednesday, it was announced that he won the American League Rookie of the Month for May:

it’s MUNE MANIA for a reason pic.twitter.com/dAEAR2SE3L

— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) June 3, 2026

Murakami played in 26 games in May, and hit .244/.382/.556 with eight home runs and 18 RBI.

Unfortunately, of course, he also suffered a grade-two hamstring strain at the end of the month. Due to the severity of the strain, he will miss the next 4-6 weeks.

Hopefully he is able to pick up where he left off when he got hurt and possibly win a couple more of these awards before the season is over.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox skyrocket up MLB power rankings, Miguel Vargas award prediction
• Munetaka Murakami named second-best rookie in Major League Baseball
• Tristan Peters’ rookie campaign is making the Brewers look foolish

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox have dropped their first two games of their series against the Minnesota Twins. However, this should not overshadow the fact that, overall, they have been one of the best teams in the American League for the vast majority of the season.

At 32-29, they are in second place in the American League Central Division and own the fifth-best record in the American League as a whole. If the season ended today, they would be in the MLB Playoffs with a Wild Card.

Indeed, what is brewing on the south side of Chicago has the potential to be something special in 2026.

The Chicago White Sox earn an A+ for early season performance

Bleacher Report recently released their grades for each team in Major League Baseball through the first 60 games of the 2026 season. After so many predicted that the White Sox would be terrible again this year, it is no surprise that Chicago earned an A+:

“It’s only 60 games, and it’s a real bummer that Munetaka Murakami is likely going to miss all of June with a hamstring injury. But the White Sox could go 10-92 the rest of the way and still finish with a better record than they had two years ago. The longer they hang around in the postseason picture, the more incredible this story becomes. It will be fascinating to see what this team does at the trade deadline.”

It is absolutely insane to think that if Chicago were to go 10-92 the rest of the way, they would still have a better record than they did in 2024, when they went 41-120.

Munetaka Murakami has been a huge part of Chicago’s early success, but they are going to be without him for 4-6 weeks due to a strained hamstring. His 20 home runs are still the most on the team and among the AL leaders.

But the contributions of Miguel Vargas and Davis Martin should not be overlooked. Vargas is already one home run shy of tying his career-high, and Martin came out of nowhere to put himself in early AL Cy Young conversations.

This is a young squad and there will be ups and downs throughout the course of the year. But what they have accomplished so far is nothing less than impressive.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox skyrocket up MLB power rankings, Miguel Vargas award prediction
• Munetaka Murakami named second-best rookie in Major League Baseball
• Tristan Peters’ rookie campaign is making the Brewers look foolish

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox could definitely afford to add some depth to their starting rotation, as things get pretty spooky after you get past Davis Martin and Sean Burke.

The good news for the White Sox is that there is plenty of time between now and the MLB trade deadline for them to pursue interesting options for their staff, although we do have to see if they will decide to be buyers.

In the event that general manager Chris Getz decides to get aggressive, Chicago should have a broad range of starters to choose from, most of which would comprise significant upgrades over what the White Sox already have.

While Freddy Peralta, Sandy Alcantara and Robbie Ray are expected to be among the biggest names available, there is another very compelling arm who could surface on the trade block between now and Aug. 3: Boston Red Sox right-hander Sonny Gray.

In fact, Michael DeRosa of Southside Showdown feels that Gray would comprise a perfect solution for the White Sox.

Chicago White Sox linked to trade for Sonny Gray

Gray is currently enjoying an impressive season with the Red Sox, and while he is slated to hit free agency at season’s end, it might be worth trading for him regardless.

“As for Gray, the White Sox would be bringing in a veteran All-Star pitcher who would help boost their rotation. The 36-year-old has been excellent for the Red Sox this season, with a 6-1 record, a 3.06 ERA, and 41 strikeouts in ten appearances. With numbers like these, he would be a nice addition for the front half of the White Sox’s rotation,” DeRosa wrote.

The primary red flag concerning Gray is that his strikeouts are down significantly, as he is averaging just 7.4 punchouts per nine innings. That’s his worst mark since 2016, and his 2.93 K/BB ratio leaves something to be desired considering he led the American League with a 5.29 K/BB last year.

That being said, Gray has done a tremendous job of limiting damage, and his 1.200 WHIP is right in line with his lifetime average.

Chicago probably wouldn’t have to pay an exorbitant price to acquire Gray given his age (36) and impending free agency, but at the same time, there will surely be plenty of other teams involved in the bidding, which will drive up the price.

We’ll see if the White Sox ultimately make a play for Gray in the coming weeks.

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Chicago White Sox are considered winners for the month of May

In an article discussing the biggest winners and losers for the month of May, ESPN’s Jesse Rogers wrote about how he believes the White Sox did. Below is what he wrote about the team:

“The Chicago White Sox were three games under .500 and trailing the first-place Detroit Tigers in the American League Central standings at the end of Apri. After closing out May with a weekend sweep of Detroit, Chicago entered June five games over .500 with the Tigers in last place. The White Sox are rolling into the summer, firmly in playoff position thanks to a trio of sluggers — Munetaka Murakami, Colson Montgomery and Miguel Vargas — and an emerging ace in Davis Martin. In May, Martin went 4-0 with a 2.05 ERA, and those three hitters combined for 22 home runs, accounting for more than half of the team’s MLB-leading total for the month. Chicago even won its first three games after Murakami went down with a hamstring strain. But the best part of this story is that 11 White Sox have made their MLB debuts already — the most for a team before June since the 1946 Brooklyn Dodgers.”

The White Sox finished the month with an 18-10 record and had a 146-114 run differential. Now, the team is stepping up and making some serious noise in the American League Central. Even with the Murakami injury, this lineup still has the ability to score runs and win games. In baseball, you only need a few months of over .500 baseball to be considered a playoff team. It’ll be intriguing to see if Chicago can continue their winning ways.

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There may be no team in Major League Baseball that is a bigger surprise than the Chicago White Sox. After losing 100+ games in each of the past three seasons, Chicago sits at 32-28 through the first 60 games of 2026. They are currently one of just five teams in the American League with a winning record, and boast the tenth-best record in Major League Baseball.

Obviously, the White Sox have gotten contributions from multiple players on their way to early-season success. One of the stars that is starting to draw the attention of the national media is Miguel Vargas, who is finally displaying the power Chicago knew he had in him.

The Chicago White Sox see Miguel Vargas gets a Silver Slugger prediction

On Tuesday, The Athletic released its weekly MLB power rankings. Last week, they had the White Sox slotted at 21. This week, though, Chicago has shot up to number 12. In their rankings, they also predicted that Vargas will be a candidate to win a Silver Slugger upon season’s end:

“If you eliminate Kevin McGonigle from the mix, who’s primarily a shortstop, Vargas is tied for the fWAR lead among AL third baseman (1.9), is third in wRC+ (134), tied for first in homers and first in runs scored.

“After a rough second half in 2024 following his trade from the Dodgers, Vargas has improved in each of the following two seasons, showing the promise that had him among the sport’s top prospects in 2023. That promise should end with a shiny silver bat for his mantle.”

In 59 games played, Vargas is hitting .241/.366/.508 with 15 home runs and 38 RBI. He has also stolen nine bases.

At this point, Vargas is on pace to hit 40 home runs in 2026, which would easily be his career-high. Prior to this season, the most home runs he hit in any given season was 16, which he did last year.

With Munetaka Murakami out for a month with a hamstring strain, the White Sox will need Vargas’ power bat to continue to produce. If it does and Chicago keeps winning, it may even be possible that the White Sox third baseman gets some AL MVP votes.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox named trade destination for aggravated young pitcher
• White Sox hope Edgar Quero can reverse his poor season
• White Sox biggest problem heading into June 2026

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox are 32-28 through the first 60 games of the 2026 MLB season. To say that no one expected them to be this good this year would be an understatement. Currently, they are one of just five American League teams with a winning record, and sport the fourth-best record in the AL. What is more, they have the tenth-best record in all Major League Baseball.

In order to get to this point, the White Sox have relied on the efforts of multiple rookie players, but none as noteworthy as Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami, who was surprisingly signed by Chicago during the off-season.

Chicago White Sox star Munetaka Murakami named 2nd-best rookie in baseball

When Bleacher Report published their list of the top-25 rookies in Major League Baseball, it was no surprise to see Murakami ranked second:

“After rumors of a potential $200 million payday entering the offseason, Munetaka Murakami ended up settling for a two-year, $34 million deal from the Chicago White Sox when concerns about his ability to handle elite velocity and manage his strikeout rate took center stage.

“With a 32.5 percent strikeout rate, those concerns were not unfounded, but an excellent 17.9 percent walk rate and elite power production have essentially made him the modern day version of Adam Dunn.

“A hamstring strain sidelined him last week, but with 20 home runs through 246 plate appearances, he has been as big a reason as any for the White Sox surprising start to the year.”

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox named trade destination for aggravated young pitcher
• White Sox hope Edgar Quero can reverse his poor season
• White Sox biggest problem heading into June 2026

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox are getting some pretty significant contributions from multiple rookie players so far this season. Of course, everyone expected Chicago to field a plethora of rookies and young talent, but very few, if any, predicted that they would be 32-28 through the first 60 games of the season.

Munetaka Murakami, of course, has received the most attention due to the 20 home runs he hit before going on the injured list with a hamstring strain. If Chicago is going to remain in the mix while Murakami is out, the rest of their young core is going to have to step up.

So far, Tristan Peters has proven that he belongs in the Majors and can be a key contributor to the lineup.

Chicago White Sox rookie Tristan Peters was originally drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers

So far this season, Peters is hitting .295/.356/.418 with two home runs, 14 RBI, and four stolen bases. Recently, Bleacher Report named him the 12th-best rookie in all Major League Baseball:

“The White Sox acquired Peters from the Rays in exchange for cash considerations in December, and he has emerged as the replacement for Luis Robert Jr. in center field. With a 113 OPS+ in the batter’s box and strong defensive metrics (5 DRS, 5 OAA), he has provided well-rounded value as one of the most out-of-nowhere contributors of the year. He might be the 2026 version of what Isaac Collins was for the Brewers last year.”

And for fans who have a particular dislike for the Milwaukee Brewers, the emergence of Peters is especially sweet. He was originally drafted by Milwaukee in the seventh round of the 2021 MLB amateur draft. A year later, they traded him to the San Francisco Giants for reliever Trevor Rosenthal.

The thing is, though, Rosenthal never pitched for Milwaukee. He was already rehabbing from a hamstring injury at the time of the trade, and then after it went down suffered a lat strain that ended his season. When the 2022 season ended, he became a free agent and left the Brewers organization.

Needless to say, for a Milwaukee team that often ends up on the right side of trades, this one was a really bad miss. Peters currently has a higher batting average and OPS than any outfielder on the Brewers’ Major League roster.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox named trade destination for aggravated young pitcher
• White Sox hope Edgar Quero can reverse his poor season
• White Sox biggest problem heading into June 2026

For More Chicago Sports

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The Chicago White Sox are playing much better in 2026 than anyone thought they would. After losing 100+ games in 2023, 2024, and 2025, fans and analysts simply hoped that Chicago would show some signs of improvement this year. What they are seeing is better than they could have possibly imagined.

At 32-28, the White Sox are one of just five American League teams with a winning record. What is more, they have the fourth-best record in the AL and the tenth-best record in all Major League Baseball.

The explanation for this surprising success is that Chicago’s young core of players are performing at or beyond the level the organization envisioned they could. This is especially true for rookie outfield Sam Antonacci.

Chicago White Sox outfielder Sam Antonacci named a top-25 rookie in MLB

Obviously, Munetaka Murakami is the highest-profile White Sox rookie. His power bat and international draw have made him one of the most noticeable players in the Majors this season. Unfortunately, he will be out for about a month with a hamstring strain.

But Antonacci himself has been having a stellar season as well. Recently, Bleacher Report named him the 25th-best rookie in all Major League Baseball:

“Antonacci hit .378/.505/.541 over 93 plate appearances in the Arizona Fall League last year, then suited up for Team Italy in the World Baseball Classic. He has not recorded an extra-base hit since May 14, but his contact skills, speed and defensive versatility have allowed him to make an impact for the upstart White Sox.”

So far this season, Antonacci is hitting .280/.370/.371 with a home run, 13 RBI, and eight stolen bases. Additionally, he leads the Majors with 11 HBP’s (hit by a pitch). While he does not have the power of Murakami, Antonacci makes consistent contact at the top of the order, giving Chicago’s run producers a chance to drive him in early and often.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox named trade destination for aggravated young pitcher
• White Sox hope Edgar Quero can reverse his poor season
• White Sox biggest problem heading into June 2026

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox are 32-28 on the season following their 9-6 loss to the Minnesota Twins on Monday night. Still, they are in second place in the American League Central Division and performing far better than anyone predicted they would in 2026.

With this surprising level of success this season, narratives surrounding the White Sox are starting to change. In years past, Chicago has been far out of contention come the MLB trade deadline. As a result, they have often traded away their few good players for prospects or expiring contracts.

Now, though, as summer begins, it appears as if the White Sox will be buyers.

The Chicago White Sox could add a big name at the MLB trade deadline

Early in the season, many wondered if Chicago might trade slugger Munetaka Murakami at the MLB trade deadline if they were out of contention. The fact of the matter, though, is that Murakami is too valuable to the White Sox. Even though he is going to be out for about a month with a strained hamstring, Chicago has plenty of talent to remain competitive.

To take the next step, though, they made need to add a big name, whether it be a bat or pitcher, at the MLB trade deadline. Per Bleacher Report:

“Their Opening Day 26-man payroll was $86M, but their average Opening Day payroll between 2022 and 2023 was $187M. And unless you want to count the $2M buyouts they’ll owe Seranthony Dominguez and Anthony Kay for their mutual options in 2028, they presently do not have a single contract figure on the books beyond next season.

“It’s why I’ve suggested several times in the past two months that if Mike Trout is getting traded anywhere, the White Sox might make the most sense.

“Or if they have an opportunity to add an established-but-pricy starting pitcher to a rotation presently devoid of household names, the dollar cost shouldn’t be the problem.”

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox named trade destination for aggravated young pitcher
• White Sox hope Edgar Quero can reverse his poor season
• White Sox biggest problem heading into June 2026

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox could definitely stand to bolster their starting rotation, as it certainly hasn’t been great beyond Davis Martin and Sean Burke. The question is, will the White Sox actually make a move to buy by the trade deadline?

Considering Chicago is sitting at 32-28 and firmly in contention in the AL Central, the White Sox might decide to add some more pieces before Aug. 3, even with slugger Munetaka Murakami sidelined for the next month-plus.

It would also largely benefit the South Siders to acquire some good, young players under team control for the foreseeable future. That way, not only can Chicago make more of a push this season, but it will have more ammunition for the years to come, as well.

Of course, it’s not always easy to land strong cost-controlled talent, so the White Sox will have a difficult road ahead of them in that regard.

However, Noah Phalen of Southside Showdown has identified a very compelling potential target for the squad: Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Carmen Mlodzinski.

Chicago White Sox linked to trade for Carmen Mlodzinski

It has certainly been an interesting ride for Mlodzinski, who has bounced back and forth between the starting rotation and the bullpen in Pittsburgh.

But after Mlodzinski made nine starts this season, he was asked by the Pirates to head back to the bullpen following the return of Jared Jones. Mlodzinski refused, resulting in Pittsburgh placing him on the restricted list. He was then activated from the list on Monday.

Trade rumors are sure to ensue, and Phalen was out ahead of it.

“Should his next steps involve requesting a trade out of Pittsburgh, I think the White Sox should be interesting. Mlodzinski is a 27 year-old with a first-round track record. He features a six-pitch mix, but his curveball and sweeper are his primary strengths,” Phalen wrote.

Mlodzinski has pitched to the tune of a 3.76 ERA this season, allowing 58 hits while registering 46 strikeouts over 55 innings of work. The 1.418 WHIP is certainly concerning, but the 27-year-old has managed to limit the damage.

Since entering the big leagues in 2023, Mlodzinski owns a 3.37 ERA and 3.44 FIP, so he has been impressive in spite of his lack of overpowering stuff.

We’ll see if the White Sox try and make a move for the right-hander if he becomes available.

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The Chicago White Sox have received production from players up and down the lineup, with three: first baseman Munetaka Murakami, shortstop Colson Montgomery and third baseman Miguel Vargas doing well. Murakami leads the team in home runs (20), OPS (.938) and RBI (41), while Montgomery (third in OPS, .827) and Vargas (second in OPS, .834) aren’t too far behind.

Sadly, for the White Sox, not all players on the roster are experiencing the level of success the trio listed above are, with catcher Edgar Quero wishing he were in their shoes. Quero has had a season from hell, batting .196 with a .593 OPS, two home runs and striking out 33 times in 112 at-bats.

The White Sox’s starting catcher to begin the season, Quero, has seen his playing time decrease in favor of Drew Romo, who also is struggling offensively, but has mashed five home runs. Limited to the backup role, Quero is running out of time to show why he should remain on the roster, as Kyle Teel will likely be back from his injury (right hamstring strain) either this month or in July.

The Chicago White Sox hope that Edgar Quero starts to figure things out as the calendar turns to June

Over a third of the way through the Major League Baseball season, June is a time when hitters and teams show you whether they can turn things around or not. According to MLB.com’s Scott Merkin, once Teel is eligible to return, the White Sox will need to choose between Romo and Quero, with Quero likely drawing the short straw due to his performance.

More White Sox News: Chicago White Sox call up No. 24 prospect to replace Munetaka Murakami

“Starting catcher Kyle Teel has not played an inning for the 2026 White Sox after suffering a right hamstring strain during the World Baseball Classic and then dealing with a sprained lateral collateral ligament in his right knee while rehabbing for Triple-A Charlotte,” wrote Merkin. “The onus quickly moved back upon switch-hitter Edgar Quero, who entered Sunday’s contest against Detroit with a .539 OPS, two home runs and 15 RBIs. Veteran backstop Drew Romo also is in play, but the White Sox need offense from Quero akin to the solid numbers he produced as a rookie in 2025.”

Quero’s dropoff is confusing and concerning, as he performed well enough in his rookie season to win the starting job for this year. The 23-year-old batted .268 with a .689 OPS, 17 doubles, five home runs, and 36 RBI. Maybe a reset at Triple-A Charlotte wouldn’t hurt to try and get Quero back on track.

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The Chicago White Sox are 32-27 on June 1, 2026. In 2024, they did not get their 32nd win until September 4. Last season, they did not win #32 until July 11. Needless to say, the rebuild is going well, and early indications in 2026 would say that they are slightly ahead of schedule.

That being said, Chicago has been far from perfect this season. Their pitching staff has had its roller coasters, though Davis Martin has been a really pleasant surprise. Additionally, slugger Munetaka Murakami is going to be out for about a month with a grade-two hamstring strain.

But all of these issues aside, there is one glaring weakness that is a concern as the season progresses.

Hopefully Rikuu Nishida can help the Chicago White Sox outfield

Bleacher Report recently released a list of every MLB team’s biggest weakness heading into June. For the White Sox, they spotlighted out dismal the outfield has been:

“Let’s assume temporarily that Munetaka Murakami comes back from his hamstring injury in short order and immediately resumes his 60 home run pace, that Colson Montgomery and Miguel Vargas continue to thrive on the left half of the infield and that Davis Martin remains in the mix for AL Cy Young.

“Even in that world, is Chicago’s outfield good enough to legitimately vie for October baseball?

“They just called up Rikuu Nishida a few days ago, hoping that what was a .410 on-base percentage in 306 minor league games translates to the majors and at least gives them something to work with. Because aside from Tristan Peters, that third of this lineup has been a mess.”

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• Versatile White Sox pitcher has earned a bigger late-inning role
• Jarred Kelenic elects free agency after White Sox demotion
• White Sox get pitcher lost in Rule 5 draft returned to them

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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Heading into the 2026 MLB season, Chicago White Sox fans wanted to see one thing: improvement. After three consecutive seasons in which the White Sox lost 100+ games, fans just wanted to see steps taken in the right direction. No one, not even the most faithful of fans (looking at you, Pope Leo), expected them to actually play consistent winning baseball.

And yet, here Chicago is on June 1, 32-27, owners of a five-game winning streak, and one game out of first place in the American League Central Division. If the season were to end today, they would be in the MLB Playoffs with a Wild Card.

The Chicago White Sox grab a top-10 spot in latest MLB power rankings

At the beginning of the year, the White Sox were consistently ranked last or close-to-last in various power rankings. Over the last several weeks, they have started to creep higher and higher up on these lists.

On Monday, Bleacher Report had them ranked 10th after having them ranked 17th last season:

“There is no shortage of evidence to show how vastly improved this White Sox team has been, but the most telling might be that they have yet to record a losing streak longer than three games. The Munetaka Murakami injury is a blow, but former first-round pick Jacob Gonzalez was hitting .317/.419/.668 with 19 home runs and 62 RBI through 52 games at Triple-A, and now he gets a chance to make his mark.”

How consistently the White Sox are able to win without Munetaka Murakami will go a long way in determining how successful the next month of the season will be for them. The Japanese slugger, who leads the American League with 20 home runs and 43 runs scored, is out four-to-six weeks with a grade two hamstring strain.

Jacob Gonzalez was called up to take Murakami’s spot on the roster. With nothing left to prove at Triple-A, hopefully his batting eye and power translate to the Majors sooner rather than later.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• Versatile White Sox pitcher has earned a bigger late-inning role
• Jarred Kelenic elects free agency after White Sox demotion
• White Sox get pitcher lost in Rule 5 draft returned to them

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox have received several unexpected contributions from their bullpen this season. Bryan Hudson has been one of the club’s most effective relievers with a 1.26 ERA in 29 games, Sean Newcomb owns a 2.62 ERA, and rookie Grant Taylor has impressed with a 2.12 mark. Additionally, since being called up at the end of April, Tyler Davis has posted a 3.12 ERA across 15 appearances.

Collectively, that group has arguably outperformed both of the team’s notable offseason bullpen additions: Jordan Hicks, who arrived via trade, and Seranthony Domínguez, who leads the club with 11 saves but has not been as dominant as several of his fellow relievers. However, based on both his results and underlying metrics, Taylor stands out from the pack.

The White Sox initially deployed him in a versatile role by asking him to handle a variety of situations, evidenced by four of his first seven appearances being as an opener, but his performance has increasingly made the case that he deserves a larger share of the team’s high-leverage innings late in games.

Grant Taylor’s electric repertoire is built for high-leverage situations, making him a strong candidate for late-inning duties

At the start of the season, the White Sox announced that Taylor would not be used as a starter in 2026. Instead, manager Will Venable has deployed him in a variety of roles, and the right-hander has thrived regardless of the assignment. Whether he’s opening a game, covering a single inning, or working multiple frames, Taylor has consistently overpowered opposing hitters.

Armed with an electric three-pitch mix that consistently generates swings and misses, Taylor has the kind of arsenal that fits perfectly in the back end of a bullpen and could ultimately profile as a future closer. His 98 mph fastball is producing whiffs at a 29% rate and plays up even further thanks to his elite extension, which gives hitters less time to react. Meanwhile, his secondary pitches, a curveball and slider, have combined to generate a 30% whiff rate, and he has allowed just one extra-base hit on each offering all season, underscoring just how difficult he has been to square up.

All that said, Taylor has primarily been used in the sixth and seventh innings this season, with most of his opportunities coming in medium-leverage situations. He has already recorded four holds and one save, but with a 2.12 ERA and 44 strikeouts across 29.2 innings, a shift into higher-leverage spots feels increasingly inevitable.

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The Chicago White Sox have been playing well throughout the season, but there have been some players who have struggled. The front office has not been afraid to be aggressive in having roster transactions. Through injuries and inconsistent play, the 26-man roster has shifted throughout the season. Let’s take a closer look at the most recent roster decision and what it means for the White Sox going forward.

Jarred Kelenic leaves the Chicago White Sox after being designated for assignment

The White Sox will no longer have outfielder Jarred Kelenic in the organization after he elected free agency. He was designated for assignment on Monday, but did not have any options. As a result, he was eligible to become a free agent and not accept the DFA. He would clear waivers and will now be available for any team to pick up for the league minimum.

Kelenic has struggled at the plate this season, which has been a story throughout his career. In 19 games, he had a .226/.305/.321 slash line with one homer, four RBI, and three runs scored. The former sixth-overall pick has struggled to hit at the major league level throughout his career.  Kelenic signed as a non-roster invitee late in the offseason to a one-year deal. However, things did not work out enough for him to remain on the roster.

With the call-ups of Tristan Peters, Sam Antonacci, and Rikuu Nishida, there were not many outfield spots on the Chicago roster to go around. They have Randal Grichuk and Derek Hill also on their bench, so they have the outfield depth that many teams do not have at this point. Kelenic and/or his representatives must feel he would get a chance on a team’s MLB roster. It will be intriguing to see if Kelenic is signed and if he is back in the big leagues this year.

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The Chicago White Sox are 31-27 on the season thus far, which is far better than virtually anyone expected them to do before the season began. While their pitching staff has been inconsistent as a whole, their offense has been quite good for the vast majority of the year to date.

Prior to the start of the 2026 season, one of Chicago’s best pitching prospects, Peyton Pallette, was selected away from them by the Cleveland Guardians in the Rule 5 draft. As per the rules, Pallette had to make Cleveland’s Opening Day roster and remain on their Major League team for the entire season.

Well, he is now back with Chicago.

The Chicago White Sox have accepted Peyton Pallette back from the Cleveland Guardians

On Sunday, it was reported that the Guardians offered Pallette back to the White Sox. Once the offer was made, Chicago had 24 hours to decide whether or not they would accept him or work out a trade with Cleveland.

It did not take long for the White Sox to welcome him back:

Cleveland has returned RHP Peyton Pallette to the White Sox. Pallette has been assigned to Class AAA Charlotte.

— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) May 31, 2026

In 16 relief appearances this year with the Guardians, Pallette is 1-2 with a 5.23 ERA.

As noted in the post above, Pallette has been assigned to Triple-A Charlotte. In 36 appearances in Charlotte last year, he was 1-2 with a 4.36 ERA. Prior to that, he made 16 appearances at Double-A Birmingham where he was 1-1 with a 3.43 ERA.

In three minor league seasons with the White Sox organization, Pallette is 6-15 with a 4.20 ERA. He was originally drafted by Chicago in the second round of the 2022 amateur draft.

While he is being assigned to Triple-A, it would not be a surprise to see Pallette back in the Majors, this time with Chicago, later in the year.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox named “perfect fit” for slugger amid Munetaka Murakami news
• Munetaka Murakami breaks silence after suffering injury
• Munetaka Murakami will be out longer than originally estimated

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox are four games over .500 thanks to their current four-game winning streak. They are just two games out of first place in the American League Central Division, and would be in the postseason as a Wild Card if the season ended today.

On Sunday, they are going for the sweep against their division rival Detroit Tigers, after winning Friday in walk-off fashion and Saturday in a dominating 7-1 victory.

Unfortunately, they will be without relief pitcher Tyler Gilbert for the series finale.

The Chicago White Sox have placed Tyler Gilbert on the emergency family leave list

Gilbert has not pitched much for the White Sox at the Major League level this season. In two appearances, he has a 20.25 ERA. However, he was recalled from Triple-A just a couple of days ago when Jordan Leasure was placed on the 15-day injured list.

On Sunday morning, Gilbert was placed on the family emergency leave list:

White Sox roster move:
• LHP Tyler Gilbert placed on the Family Medical Emergency List⁰• LHP Chris Murphy recalled from Triple-A Charlotte#whitesox

— Brooke Fletcher (@BrookeFletcher) May 31, 2026

It is not yet known how long Gilbert will be away from the team, nor what the nature of the emergency is.

Left-handed pitcher Chris Murphy has been recalled from Triple-A to take Gilbert’s spot on the roster. In six appearances at the Major League level with the White Sox this season, Murphy is 1-0 with a 10.50 ERA. Down in Triple-A, he has appeared in 12 games (one start) and is 2-2 with a 3.68 ERA.

Murphy has a knack for racking up strikeouts, but also allows nearly as many walks. Control will be important for him going forward as he tries to stick on the Major League roster this time around.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox named “perfect fit” for slugger amid Munetaka Murakami news
• Munetaka Murakami breaks silence after suffering injury
• Munetaka Murakami will be out longer than originally estimated

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox have lost their top slugger for at least a month, as first baseman Munetaka Murakami will now be sidelined for four-to-six weeks due to a hamstring injury.

Not that it’s ever good to lose your best hitter, but the timing couldn’t be worse for the White Sox, who are making a serious push in the AL Central and don’t have a whole lot of lineup depth to make up for the injury.

Outside of Colson Montgomery and Miguel Vargas, Chicago doesn’t really have any threatening bats, so Murakami’s absence could result in the White Sox tumbling down the standings (although they did win their first game without him on Saturday).

You also have to wonder what this does to Chicago’s trade deadline plans. Will the White Sox be buyers? Or will they sell?

Well, Christopher Kline of FanSided seems to believe the South Siders will be on the hunt, naming them a top destination for Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran.

Chicago White Sox linked to Jarren Duran once again

Chicago has become a popular choice as a landing spot for Duran, who will almost surely be on the trade block between now and Aug. 3.

Kline was the latest to pitch the White Sox as a possible destination.

“Chicago could use some pop in the outfield. Rikuu Nishida is extremely fun and immensely likable, but he’s just not enough of a threat at the plate. Nor is Luisangel Acuña, despite all of Chris Getz’s offseason proselytizing. Meanwhile, the Andrew Benintendi era has reached its logical endpoint, at least insofar as needing to play him every day,” Kline wrote.

While Duran would certainly help the White Sox this season, he carries the added benefit of being under team control through 2028, so Chicago could have him for the next two-plus years if it decides to make a move for him now.

The 29-year-old has been struggling in 2026, owning a .217/.279/.396 slash line, but he has homered nine times with 32 RBI and has been coming on as of late.

Plus, Duran is just two years removed from finishing eighth in AL MVP voting and making an All-Star appearance after posting an .834 and a plus-23 DRS.

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The Chicago White Sox have seen a lot of young players immediately produce when they have made the big leagues. This 2026 team has a significant amount of young players stepping up, and that is helping the team be successful. One of their young stars set a franchise record in their most recent game. Let’s take a closer look at who it is and what they did to make the history books for Chicago.

Colson Montgomery sets a Chicago White Sox franchise record with his 35th homer

The White Sox have had a lot of young stars get called up over the years, but a franchise record was set. Shortstop Colson Montgomery hit a home run on Saturday against the Detroit Tigers, and that set a franchise record. That was his 35th career homer in 128 games, which breaks Jose Abreu’s 133 games it took to get to that total. Montgomery has been an incredible hitter in his young career. He has an .829 OPS with 35 homers, 90 RBI, and 70 runs scored while being one of the likely American League All-Stars on the White Sox right now. He is now tied with the following players for 88th in White Sox franchise history with 35 home runs:

• Alejandro De Aza
• Chris Singleton
• Nellie Fox
• Oscar Gamble
• Ken Henderson

The lineup as a whole has been producing a lot of power this season. They have hit at least three home runs in 11 games this year, the second-most in MLB behind the New York Yankees. With Munetaka Murakami on the injured list, this is a chance for players like Montgomery to get more attention. He has been one of the best hitters in baseball, but has not been getting as much national attention. With the number of talented shortstops in baseball, the White Sox have one they can pencil into their lineup every day.

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The Chicago White Sox have enjoyed more success so far this year than probably anyone thought they would. After three straight 100+ loss seasons, most everyone believed that Chicago would, once again, be one of the worst teams in Major League Baseball.

But they are currently 30-27 and in second place in the American League Central Division. What is more, they are one of just four teams in the entire American League with a record over .500. If the season ended today, they would be in the postseason with a Wild Card spot.

One of their best players thus far has been Japanese rookie slugger Munetaka Murakami, who has proven all his doubters wrong since coming over to join the White Sox. Unfortunately, he is going to be out for a while.

Chicago White Sox star Munetaka Murakami addresses media after hamstring injury

Through the first 57 games of the 2026 season, Murakami is hitting .240/.378/.560 with 20 home runs (which leads the American League) and 41 RBI. He also leads the American League with 43 runs scored.

Unfortunately, he suffered a grade-two hamstring strain on Friday night, and will be out for the next four-to-six weeks. The White Sox placed him on the 10-day injured list on Saturday morning, and called up Jacob Gonzalez from Triple-A to take his spot on the Major League roster.

Also on Saturday morning, Murakami addressed the media for the first time since the news of his injury broke:

“There’s a lot of ways to contribute to the team…I’ll keep doing that so they can keep grinding as a team.”

Munetaka Murakami spoke this morning after suffering a hamstring strain on Friday night: pic.twitter.com/6PQivIAxUj

— White Sox on CHSN (@CHSN_WhiteSox) May 30, 2026

“It’s disappointing, at this stage, to be injured. But there a lot of different ways to contribute to the team, like carrying on, and other things. So I’ll keep doing that so they can keep grinding as a team.”

When asked how his hamstring felt this morning, he answered simply, “It hurts. It hurts.”

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox trade deadline plans just took a jarring turn
• White Sox expected to call up number-24 prospect to replace Munetaka Murakami
• White Sox Munetaka Murakami leaves Tigers game with worrisome injury

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox have been enjoying a more successful start to a season than they have had in quite some time. After three consecutive 100+ loss seasons, they are currently 30-27 and in second place in the American League Central Division. They are also just one of four American League teams currently with a record over .500.

Over the course of the first third of the season, the White Sox have been fortunate to benefit from the power bat of rookie slugger Munetaka Murakami. This off-season, they signed the Japanese slugger to a two-year $34 million contract, and he has been as good as anyone could have hoped.

Unfortunately, they will be without him for a while.

Chicago White Sox star Munetaka Murakami will be out 4-6 weeks

During Chicago’s exciting 4-3 victory over the Detroit Tigers on Friday night, Murakami had to be removed from the game due to a hamstring injury. Afterwards, it was reported that they believed he would miss a couple of weeks.

Further testing, though, has revealed that the hamstring strain is worse than initially thought. It is a grade-two strain, which means the White Sox slugger will miss the next four-to-six weeks of the season:

White Sox say Murakami’s hamstring will take 4-6 weeks to heal.

— Bruce Levine (@MLBBruceLevine) May 30, 2026

Obviously, this is a huge blow to Chicago. Through 57 games played, Murakami is hitting .240/.378/.560 with 20 home runs, and 41 RBI. His 20 home runs currently lead the American League, as do the 43 runs he has scored already this season.

With their star slugger out, it appears that Miguel Vargas will move from third base to first base. Additionally, the White Sox called up Jacob Gonzalez to take Murakami’s spot on the roster. He his hitting .317/.419/.668 with 19 home runs and 62 RBI in Triple-A this year.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox trade deadline plans just took a jarring turn
• White Sox expected to call up number-24 prospect to replace Munetaka Murakami
• White Sox Munetaka Murakami leaves Tigers game with worrisome injury

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox won in dramatic fashion on Friday night. After falling behind 2-0 early to the Detroit Tigers, they were able to finally tie the game in the ninth inning, which sent the game into extra innings. After falling behind 3-2 in the tenth, Miguel Vargas hit a walk-off two-run home run to give Chicago the 4-3 victory.

Unfortunately for the White Sox, the win came at a staggering cost. Munetaka Murakami, their most feared hitter, suffered a hamstring injury and had to be removed from the game.

The Chicago White Sox place Munetaka Murakami on the 10-day IL, call up Jacob Gonzalez

Murakami strained his hamstring while trying to beat out a grounder. He was removed from the game, and it was reported that he likely would be out for a couple of weeks.

On Saturday morning, that news became official:

pic.twitter.com/rPpiz0wYWq

— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) May 30, 2026

Murakami is currently hitting .240/.378/.560 with 20 home runs and 41 RBI. His 20 home runs lead the American League, as do the 43 runs he has scored so far this season.

To replace Murakami on the Major League roster, Chicago has called up Jacob Gonzalez. A first round pick in the 2023 amateur draft, Gonzalez plays both shortstop and second base.

In 52 games played at Triple-A this year, Gonzalez is hitting .317/.419/.668 with 19 home runs and 62 RBI. Clearly, he is has proven everything there is to prove down in the minors, and is ready for his shot in the Majors.

To make room for Gonzalez on the 40-man roster, the White Sox moved injured pitcher Jordan Leasure to the 60-day injured list.

In their first lineup without Murakami this season, Chicago has decided that Miguel Vargas will start at first base.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox trade deadline plans just took a jarring turn
• White Sox expected to call up number-24 prospect to replace Munetaka Murakami
• White Sox Munetaka Murakami leaves Tigers game with worrisome injury

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago White Sox are a season-high three games over .500 and are making quite the push in the AL Central, a division currently led by the Cleveland Guardians.

No one is going to confuse the Guardians for juggernauts, so the White Sox absolutely have a chance of winning the crown. You would then think that Chicago would be a buyer ahead of the MLB trade deadline, right?

Well, things did appear to be heading in that direction, as it seemed pretty clear the White Sox were well ahead of schedule. It would be discouraging to see Chicago start selling off pieces in the midst of a playoff hunt.

However, things may have taken a drastic turn on Friday night, as first baseman Munetaka Murakami left the game with a hamstring injury and is expected to miss at least a couple of weeks as a result.

This could completely alter the course of the White Sox’s trade deadline plans.

Munetaka Murakami just changed the Chicago White Sox’s trade deadline

Murakami is Chicago’s top source of offense of offense by a country mile. He leads the American League with 20 home runs and owns a .938 OPS on the season, putting together one of the more impressive rookie campaigns in recent memory.

Yes, the White Sox have other notable young sluggers like Colson Montgomery and Miguel Vargas, but Murakami is undoubtedly the cream of the crop and makes everyone else’s jobs easier.

Now that the 26-year-old is expected to be sidelined for a extended period of time, it could definitely upend Chicago’s playoff hopes. If he is only out for two weeks, it might not be a huge deal, but hamstrings typically take longer than that to fully heal. And even in the best-case scenario, can the White Sox stay afloat without their best hitter?

Chicago had been rumored to be potentially be in the running for names like Jarren Duran and even Mike Trout, but Murakami’s injury may have totally changed things for the South Siders.

Should the White Sox go into a bit of a tailspin sans Murakami, it could ultimately lead to them selling by Aug. 3 to try and load up with more young pieces to bolster their chances for 2027 and beyond.

Hopefully, Chicago is able to withstand this massive blow, but it seems hard to imagine the Sox will be perfectly fine without Murakami.

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Usually, when there is bad news, good news follows it. In the case of the Chicago White Sox, that happened on Friday night, as they lost first baseman/designated hitter Munetaka Murakami to injury (right hamstring strain), but beat the Detroit Tigers on a walk-off home run in the 10th inning by Miguel Vargas.

Focusing on the bad news, the White Sox will likely be without Murakami for a couple of weeks, as the 26-year-old will meet with the media on Saturday to discuss the grade of his hamstring strain. With Murakami set to miss a decent chunk, the White Sox are calling up infielder Jacob Gonzalez, who is the No. 24 prospect, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan.

More White Sox News: Chicago White Sox have a top 10 farm system

Gonzalez, who has been one of the best hitters at Triple-A Charlotte — slashing .308/.414/.646 with 18 homers in 51 games — is getting an early birthday gift from the White Sox with the call to the big leagues — Gonzalez turns 24 on Saturday, May 30. The White Sox drafted Gonzalez in the first round (15th overall) in the 2023 MLB Draft from the University of Mississippi.

The Chicago White Sox are calling up infielder Jacob Gonzalez, sources tell ESPN. With Munetaka Murakami facing a multi-week absence due to a hamstring injury, the White Sox summon one of the hottest hitters in the minor leagues, batting .308/.414/.646 with 18 homers in 51 games.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) May 30, 2026

Jacob Gonzalez should see a decent amount of playing time with the Chicago White Sox while Munetaka Murakami is out

With Murakami landing on the injured list, the White Sox are rather thin with options on players to play at first base. Vargas, who has been Venable’s starting third baseman (47 games, 44 starts), will likely get the bulk of the starting reps at first base. Vargas moved over from third to first in the 4-3 win over the Tigers in 10 innings after infielder/outfielder Luisangel Acuna pinch-ran for Murakami.

Even though Vargas will take down the bulk of the time at first base, Gonzalez too could spend time at the corner, as he has played six games (five starts) at first base while in Charlotte. In 43.0 innings, Gonzalez has four assists, one error and made three double plays.

Other than first base, the California native has played second base (five games, five starts), third base (one games) and has primarily played shortstop (35 games, 34 starts). With Colson Montgomery locked in at shortstop and Vargas possibly moving over to first base, Venable may use Gonzalez at third.

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