The Chicago White Sox got everything they expected and more from James McCann in 2019. Especially in the first half of the season. He was so good in the first half that he was given the honor of representing the White Sox for the American League All-Stars. He was outstanding and deserves a lot of credit for the way he played. He also helped the team by giving some of the young arms like Lucas Giolito a catcher that they trust to help them develop.
With all of that said, it wouldn’t be that much of a surprise if the White Sox ended up trading him while his value is high. For one, his second half wasn’t nearly as dominant as his first half. There were a couple of clutch moments for the Sox in the second half by McCann but nothing like the performance he put together before the All-Star Break. There are other teams who will look at his total numbers from 2019 and see him as a player they need.
The White Sox also signed Yasmani Grandal to be their everyday catcher in 2020 and beyond. He was given a lucrative four-year deal so he is no doubt going to get most of the reps. James McCann would still serve as a good backup and potentially a designated hitter as well. They also signed Edwin Encarnacion who should get most of the DH at-bats, however. There seems to be limited space for James so if the right price was offered for him it might be a smart move to let him go for the White Sox.