It is time to bring up the prospects and see what the Chicago White Sox potential future looks like now that the trade deadline has passed.
The trade deadline passed with a whimper as far as Chicago White Sox fans were concerned. The only deal made was a cost-cutting move. The Sox were able to remove Nate Jones and his salary by sending him and $1M of international bonus pool money to the Rangers for a couple of minor league pitchers. It was a typical budget-conscious move.
None of the veterans on the major league roster were moved for some reason. They aren’t a part of the future and the 2nd half collapse has effectively ended any hope for a .500 or better season this year. So, with no August 31 waiver deadline, why are they still here taking at-bats from the younger guys?
It’s time to bring up Luis Robert. He’s done everything asked of him and needs to get his feet wet this year at the major league level. We all know he’ll be in Chicago next year, so why not get him up now so next year isn’t a shock? Yes, I know, the dreaded service time control factor. If the Sox are going to show fans they are more concerned with winning than saving money, then it’s time to bring up Robert.
Luis Robert is not the only prospect that should be up either. Zack Collins should be called back up and this time put him in the lineup to get at-bats every day. The way he was mishandled on his last time up in Chicago is a travesty. Zavala is already up and he should be here for more than the three days Castillo is going to be out.
Why is Castillo even on the team? He brings absolutely nothing to the team offensively or defensively. He has complained about his lack of playing time this year and quite honestly he’s been terrible. Let him go. Others that need to not be on the 40 man roster include Yolmer Sanchez. Yes, he’s funny and dumps Gatorade baths on himself, but hat was fun the last 2 years when that’s all there was to look forward to on this team. That time has passed through and it’s time to say bye to Yolmer.
Ryan Cordell and Adam Engel. You had your shot. it’s over now. Ryan Goins? Same thing for them too. Even though you may be the 3rd best hitter on the team, you’re not part of the future here, so it’s time to go. Danny Mendick should get his chance, soon. He has earned a shot. He’s a blue-collar, hard-working grinder that fans will love.
Yermin Mercedes has been crushing in the minors. He’s 26 years old and needs to be given his shot as well. Many of these guys are catcher/1b/DH type guys, but why not bring them up and let them battle it out on the field for the next two months. They can have a losing record or not in the second half, but they could have a high draft pick.
So, in review, the following should be given their release:
Castillo
Sanchez
Engel
Goins
Cordell
And these players need to be up in their place:
Robert
Collins
Mercedes
Mendick
Zavala
Let’s get a head start on seeing who is going to be with us next year and beyond. It’s time.