The Chicago White Sox could have another top prospect in the majors during the 2021 season, as Andrew Vaughn could be knocking on the door soon.
Despite the excitement surrounding the Chicago White Sox for the upcoming year, the roster still has several holes. The White Sox still need a closer, a viable option as their designated hitter, and more depth, both on the bench and in the rotation. There is still plenty of work to be done.
Chicago may have a piece to the puzzle already in their system. Andrew Vaughn, the third overall selection in the 2019 MLB Draft, could be an option by the end of the 2021 season.
Had the 2020 season progressed as normal, and there had been a minor league campaign, Vaughn may have been an option for Opening Day. However, he has yet to appear above high-A ball, and despite his stature as a consensus top 35 prospect, could potentially stand more seasoning in the minors.
But that does not mean his time will not come during the upcoming season. He performed well in his time in the White Sox system in 2019, moving through three levels as he displayed his excellent power and solid batting eye. Vaughn produced a .278/.384/.449 batting line over his 245 plate appearances, hitting six homers and 17 doubles. Even more impressively, he drew 30 walks while striking out only 38 times.
This fits in with his scouting report. Vaughn is considered to have an excellent approach at the plate, refusing to chance pitches and hitting to all fields. His natural power and bat speed should lend itself to considerable power in the future, as he projects to become a perennial 30 home run hitter at first.
There is also a path to playing time. Edwin Encarnacion will not be back in 2021, leaving an opening at DH and as Jose Abreu‘s backup at first. Although Vaughn is likely to spend at least a month or two in the minors, a strong showing could lead to a promotion by the time June rolls around.
Andrew Vaughn is getting closer to making his debut for the Chicago White Sox. That time should come in the first half of the 2021 campaign.