Chicago White Sox: The bullpen is going to start taking shape

One of the biggest issues in the first half of the season for the Chicago White Sox has been the bullpen. It hasn’t been bad by any means but they were only average. With the expecations that they (and the rest of the team) have, average is not good enough. It felt like they were in need of about one or two more arms to join the group. The trade deadline provided that for them.

They made two separate transactions with the Chicago Cubs in order to acquire Craig Kimbrel and Ryan Tepera who were probably the two best closers for them this year. Now, they join a White Sox bullpen that is ready to go on a run.

Each of them made their debut for the White Sox over the weekend. They had opposite results. Craig Kimbrel was brilliant and Tepera wasn’t. It is a good sign that Kimbrel hasn’t missed a beat while it is a bit concerning what has happened with Tepera. However, he was so good for the Cubs this season that nobody should worry too much. He is going to be just fine once he adjusts.

This sets up the White Sox bullpen so nicely for the rest of the season. Tepera will join guys like Michael Kopech, Garrett Crochet, and Aaron Bummer as late-inning setup guys. Kimbrel will join Liam Hendriks as the best closer duo in the league. One of them can go in the 8th with the other in the 9th or they could each closeout different games. The possibilities of combos are endless.

The Chicago White Sox have some of the best pitching that they’ve ever had.

If everyone competes to the best of their ability, they are going to be a very good bullpen. Pitching is key in the playoffs and thier pitching is set up to be very good. With Lucas Giolito, Dylan Cease, Dallas Keuchel, Lance Lynn, and Carlos Rodon pitching the way that they have as a five-man rotation this season, they are loaded.

If those starters consistently give them five or six strong innings, they will be golden. There are other good early game relievers in the mix too like Reynaldo Lopez and Jose Ruiz who can help as well. Both of those guys have done thier job admirably in recent weeks. It is the perfect time to see it all come together as they try to win the American League Central division title. As the bullpen sets itself over the next few weeks, there might be some good times ahead.