The Chicago White Sox have just added Dallas Keuchel to a promising rotation. The deal is three-years, $55.5M according to Jeff Passan. Keuchel posted an 8-8 record with a 3.75 ERA in a season that was delayed by his inability to reach an agreement with a team last offseason. He was serviceable for the Braves playoff run and is entering his age 32 season.
Bolstering the Rotation
With the Indians seemingly in rebuild mode, this is a great time for this young White Sox team to take a step up. The Indians appear to be more concerned with dumping salary than competing for a division title. The Twins will also pose as a threat, but the White Sox are inching into playoff contention with another solid offseason. Keuchel will join a rotation that already boasts some strong arms. Lucas Giolito (14-9, 3.41 ERA) will lead the rotation after showing promise in 2019. The rotation also features Dylan Cease, Reynaldo Lopez and flame-throwing prospect Michael Kopech . Gio Gonzalez also signed recently and will hold Kopech’s spot until he is capable of returning from Tommy John Surgery.
Quality Improvements
The White Sox managed to add some quality baseball players without losing anyone of serious value. Yasmani Grandal (Four-years, $73M) and Nomar Mazara (via trade) are notable additions to a team that won 72 games last season. As the young core continues to improve, the White Sox have a real shot at competing in the AL Central. The White Sox ownership have been very willing to open up their wallets despite the lack of success recently. The 2020 Chi-Sox enter the season as a team to watch in the American League.