Chicago White Sox get bullpen help from Chicago Cubs

The Chicago White Sox had already taken care of their biggest issue on the roster when they acquired Cesar Hernandez to address their hole at second base. There were still possible areas of need, as the White Sox had been looking for a catcher and could potentially use help in the bullpen, but those were not necessarily considered to be as important.

Hours after acquiring Hernandez, the White Sox made another move. They acquired reliever Ryan Tepera from the crosstown Cubs, sending minor league pitcher Bailey Horn back to the North Side.

Chicago White Sox add more depth to bullpen

Tepera is best known for receiving an MVP vote in 2020, but he is far more than that accidental checkbox. He has been a solid middle reliever over the years, which has continued in 2021. To this point, he has posted a 2.91 ERA and a 0.785 WHiP over his 43.1 innings, striking out 50 batters with 12 walks.

It is also possible that the White Sox could keep Tepera beyond this season as they build a potentially formidable bullpen. He signed for just $800,000, so a reasonable extension could be possible. Considering his performance, he would certainly be worth it.

In exchange, the Cubs have received the White Sox 2020 5th round selection in Horn. He had dominated in A-ball, but has struggled since his promotion to High-A. Overall, Horn has a 5.63 ERA and a 1.330 WHiP in his 38.1 innings, striking out 45 batters with 18 walks.

Horn is not considered to be a top prospect. He has a three pitch mix with a fastball, curve, and change, but all of those offerings are considered average at best. While he does hit 96 MPH on the fastball as a lefty, it does not have much movement, making it rather hittable. Likewise, his command is shaky at best, which does not help his stuff play up.

The Chicago White Sox have continued to bolster their bullpen depth, as they have acquired Ryan Tepera from the Chicago Cubs.