Chicago White Sox: Potential September call-ups?
Apr 17, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Chicago White Sox hat in the dugout before the game against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
With September right around the corner, it is about time to discuss call-ups to the major league club. Unfortunately for the Chicago White Sox, 2015 will be the seventh consecutive year that they will miss the playoffs. While that is disappointing, it means the club can take a longer look at some of their prospects.
Here are some potential options.
Erik Johnson (RHP)
Feb 28, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Chicago White Sox pitcher Erik Johnson poses for a portrait during photo day at Camelback Ranch. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Johnson got a look with the White Sox at the end of 2013 and the beginning of 2014. While he had some bright spots in a couple seasons ago his velocity dropped considerably the following year, causing a major drop off in production.
While Johnson has spent all of this season in Triple-A, his velocity has returned not to mention his season has gone much better. His ERA was 6.73 in ’14, it has dropped to 2.38 this year. In two more appearances (20 to 22) Johnson’s win total has jumped from five to 10 from last year to this year with the Charlotte Knights.
With better control, returned velocity, and more confidence it would make sense to bring Johnson back to the majors for the first time in 2015 when September arrives.
Next: 2 future major leaguers on the horizon?
May 9, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago White Sox second baseman Micah Johnson (7) forces out Cincinnati Reds catcher Brayan Pena (29) and throws to first base during the sixth inning in game one of a doubleheader at U.S Cellular Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
Frankie Montas (RHP)
Montas is one of the hardest throwers in all of baseball, no matter what level you talk about.
According to FutureSox.com, he has fastball scrapes 100 not to mention slider with potential. His third pitch is a changeup, however that pitch needs some work. To begin his major league career, it is likely that the White Sox will use him out of the bullpen.
Micah Johnson (INF)
Micah Johnson has blazing speed and big time stolen base potential. He is still very raw, especially in the field not to mention despite his great speed Johnson still makes mistakes on the base paths.
Johnson could become a solid starter, but if he doesn’t make it that far he still has a place as a backup due to his speed. He could make a backup outfielder at some point, just so he could be used alas Jarrod Dyson of the Kansas City Royals.
Next: Could a RHP be called up?
May 28, 2015; Baltimore, MD, USA; Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Chris Beck (54) pitches during the second inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Chris Beck (RHP)
Beck is a starting pitching prospect with a sinking fastball (per FutureSox.com). Beck made one start in a double-header early in the year (Baltimore) however he lost that game.
While Beck is not going to be much more than a No. 4 starter in the majors, it would be a good thing for the White Sox to see if they have some options at the back end of the rotation going into 2016.
Beck has already been up with the White Sox earlier this season.
Next: Others who could get the call
Jun 22, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Chicago White Sox relief pitcher Scott Carroll (67) delivers a pitch in the seventh inning against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field. The Twins won 13-2. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Notables
(Adrian Nieto, Kevan Smith, Rob Brantly — catchers) Matt Davidson (3B), Leury Garcia (INF), Scott Carroll (RHP)
Davidson is the most notable player on this list, as he is the top third baseman prospect in the White Sox system. While he strikes out entirely too much, his defense has improved not to mention he provides power at a power position.
A catcher is going to be brought to the majors, as one is virtually every year, and it wouldn’t surprise me if Garcia and/or Carroll come back to the big club.
It is always a good look into the future when a team’s prospects come to the majors. Considering that the White Sox farm is rapidly improving, improved players will come up to the majors through the system.
While I doubt any of these players will turn into superstars, it is possible that they could help the organization for years to come.