The Chicago White Sox had already dominated headlines with their quest to find a manager this offseason.
After a drawn out process with multiple favorites, rumors of a manager being hired only for more interviews to happen, and reasons to question what is going on in Chicago, Pedro Grifol is now on the bench. It is up to him to guide what had been one of the more disappointing teams in the majors back to the postseason.
Three potential targets for Chicago White Sox
The talent is there. The White Sox have the pieces in place to return to the postseason and go on a deep run. However, there are holes throughout the roster that need to be addressed. Now that Grifol is in place and is putting together his coaching staff, the White Sox can now turn their attention to fixing the roster.
Which players should the Chicago White Sox target as they look to return to the postseason? Here are three possible options.
Andrew Benintendi
The Chicago White Sox had three different players get most of the playing time in left last season – Eloy Jimenez, AJ Pollock, and Andrew Vaughn. None of them should see much playing time in left next year.
Pollock is heading to free agency, having turned down his $13 million player option for 2023. Jimenez is better suited for a designated hitter role given his defensive limitations. Vaughn is likely heading to first base as Jose Abreu is a free agent and the White Sox have not displayed much urgency in bringing him back.
There is a perfect option available in free agency. Andrew Benintendi would be the defensive presence that the White Sox need in left, a former Gold Glove winner coming off of his first All Star season. His ability to make contact and get on base would also make him an ideal fit atop their lineup, giving the heart of their order someone to drive in.
Benintendi would not be cheap. He may be the best corner outfielder available on the market that is not named Aaron Judge. There are plenty of teams that need help in the outfield that could use Benintendi’s services as they look to build a contending roster. At the same time, he would be a perfect fit for the White Sox going forward.
The Chicago White Sox need to find a viable option in left field. Andrew Benintendi would be a perfect fit.