The Chicago White Sox are loaded with good pitchers. Dallas Keuechel is a question mark and Carlos Rodon is as good as gone. However, Lucas Giolito, Lance Lynn, and Dylan Cease will return as starters that you can expect elite stuff from going forward.
The plan is also for Michael Kopech to finally make that jump back to being a starting pitcher full-time. Garrett Crochet and Reynaldo Lopez are natural starters that have been in the bullpen for different reasons as well. With all of that in mind, it would be a good idea to think about bringing another starter in.
There are a lot of good ones out there but one of the best from 2021 is available. Robbie Ray was outstanding for the Toronto Blue Jays this year. In fact, he was so good that he is one of the three finalists with Lance Lynn for the American League Cy Young. There is a good chance that he wins it too.
Ray had an ERA of 2.84, a WHIP of 1.045, and 248 strikeouts. His 6.7 WAR shows just how impactful of a player that he was for the Blue Jays in 2021. They came a game short of the American League Wild Card and Ray was a big reason why they were in contention.
The Chicago White Sox would look amazing if they brought Robbie Ray in.
It is rare to see a (likely) defending Cy Young Award winner change teams like that during the offseason but that may be the case with Robbie Ray. The Jays are going to try and keep him but they might have a hard time with how wealthy his next contract is going to make him.
The White Sox would be wise to consider it if they can see it in their financial plans. He would come in and make it where they have five elite starters set to make their rotation. He may not make the Opening Day start as there are many in contention for that honor but he could certainly end up being their ace.
A World Series window is open for the Chicago White Sox right now. They are one of the legit favorites to win it in the American League. We also know how fast that window can close over the years so they should try and take advantage of it right now. Adding an elite pitcher to the mix like Robbie Ray could help them get over the hump. It may be expensive but it would be worth it.