Prospect Watch: Chicago White Sox

White Sox Prospect Taylor Thompson, Courtesy of The Charlotte Knights, MiLB.com.

RHP Taylor Thompson

Age: 27

Taylor has been a prospect in the White Sox farm system since 2009. Up until his promotion to Triple-A Charlotte, in 2013, he had never posted a single season ERA above 2.52. He hit a rough patch upon being introduced to the International League, but has rebounded nicely in 2014. He has 50 strikeouts in 44 innings of work this season to go with a 2.86 ERA and six saves.

Southside Showdown editor, Stephen Forscha, pointed out the possibility of adding Thompson to the 40-man roster so that the team can take advantage of his late-game experience at the major league level last week. I have to agree with Stephen. Taylor has the tools to be an effective closer. According to ScoutingBook.com, he boasts a lower to mid-90’s fastball and can throw the slider effectively.

The guy is 27 years old and not getting any younger. He’s recorded 61 saves over his last 3.5 years in the minors. He’s been successful at every level, so why not see what he can do in Chicago? With all do respect to our bullpen, could it really hurt?