Chicago White Sox Rumors: Could Manny Machado and Bryce Harper be South Side bound?
By Paul Ashley
The Chicago White Sox are in the midst of a 10 year playoff drought, but they could find their way back into the playoffs if they are able to sign a certain pair of coveted free agents during the upcoming offseason.
Manny Machado and Bryce Harper are going to be heavily pursued by many teams this offseason, but if the two want to play together (while also receiving large paydays), their options may be more limited. Although the Chicago White Sox lost 100 games last season, they should not be completely counted out of the Machado-Harper sweepstakes.
According to team payroll numbers by Spotrac, the White Sox payroll in 2018 was only $71.8 million. If their current arbitration eligible players are kept while receiving the raises predicted by MLB Trade Rumors, and the $16.0 million team option of James Shields is not picked up, the White Sox will only be on the hook for roughly $51.8 million next season.
As the White Sox have history of going north of a $100 million payroll in numerous seasons (including $130 million in both 2011 and 2016), the organization could have a lot of funds available for the upcoming free agent class. With Jose Abreu already on the 2019 roster and many intriguing, young talents such as Yoan Moncada, Tim Anderson, and Reynaldo Lopez in the mix, the South Side of Chicago could be a free agent destination ahead of the 2019 season.
Another aspect of the White Sox organization that could be attractive to free agents is the fact that they are a member of the American League Central division. The Cleveland Indians have won the division in three straight seasons, however, after losing in the ALDS in each of the past two seasons following their World Series loss in 2016, the team could be considering a shake-up that may leave the AL Central up for grabs next season.
As the 2018 AL Central division also featured a 78 win team (Minnesota Twins), a 64 win team (Detroit Tigers), and 58 win team (Kansas City Royals), this division may provide an opportunity for Machado and Harper to return to the postseason on a division-leading team. The rumored destinations of either Philadelphia or the Bronx for the pair would present a tougher road to the playoffs as the NL East and AL East are very talented divisions.
The AL East was especially tough this season as a 100 win New York Yankees team had to settle for a Wild Card spot after the Boston Red Sox put together a 108 win season. Harper and Machado are very familiar with the Eastern divisions, so they may want to venture out to another division.
Although the Los Angeles Dodgers could be another possible destination for the duo, the NL West is also tough as evidence by the Colorado Rockies forcing the Dodgers to play a game 163 to determine the winner of the division. Due to this, it makes sense that a popular town to spend an off-day (such as Chicago) should be considered as a real possibility for the two young free agents looking to sign massive, long-term contracts (especially if the pair want to play together).