It is now June and there needs to be a talk about some players down in the farm system who are currently knocking at the door for a cup of coffee in the majors. While depth was talked about as a problem back in April for the White Sox, with how the last month has been in their minor leagues, it has certainly helped solved that problem. If these players keep it up, then the Sox front office will have to make some decisions.
Gavin Sheets
At this moment of the article being written, Sheets actually has been called up to the majors due to Andrew Vaughn being put on the COVID-19 protocol injured list, but there might actually be a strong case to keep him up in Chicago. Sheets has been nothing short of excellent this season in Charlotte as he's slashing .319/.360/.500 with four home runs, five doubles, and 20 RBIs in 23 games. However, when looking at his advanced metrics, that's where the eye popping really begins as he has a .860 OPS, .378 wOBA, and 130 wRC+. Oh, as well as a .371 BABIP! That is tremendously great. While those numbers might not be nearly as good once he faces better pitching in the majors, it would suggest that he could be a valuable asset in their lineup especially with his left handed pop. He also provides versatility now that he has the ability to play the corner outfield positions which may make Jake Lamb expendable. Sheets should be getting some playing time and if he excels in his cup of coffee in the majors, then it would seem he should stay with the club for the rest of the season. But even if he does return to the minors and then continues to rake, then he should be considered for a permanent return to the big leagues or at the very least be a September call-up. With all the power Sheets has in his bat, it could be useful as he could platoon with Yermin Mercedes at designated hitter or get a start in one of the corner outfield positions or first base from time to time. Heck, with Luis Robert, Eloy Jimenez, and now Andrew Vaughn out, a power bat is something the Sox could use. Especially a left handed one.
Blake Rutherford
Another player that is knocking at the door in Charlotte, Rutherford needs to be considered seriously as his bat is doing some serious business. In 22 games, Rutherford is slashing .290/.340/.430 with a home run, eight doubles, and nine RBIs. His advanced metrics are off the charts as well as he has a .343 wOBA, 108 wRC+, .770 OPS, and a ridiculous .397 BABIP. Rutherford also has the ability to play all outfield positions, though is more likely to play at corner outfield positions. While it's only been 22 games, it would seem like that's enough time to think about possibly promoting him at some point this month. However, if someone like Jake Lamb, Billy Hamilton, or Adam Eaton continue to struggle after June is over, then it might be time to make that decision to call up Rutherford. Whether he will put up similar numbers in the majors is always a question mark, he certainly has the talent especially considering he's a former first round draft pick. Plus, as a front office executive, you have to find ways to improve your team and Rutherford seems like a good candidate for that.
Jake Burger
Well, isn't this surprising? Considering his injury and lack of baseball action since 2017, Burger has been absolutely killing it at Charlotte. What is crazy to think with all those factors, Burger made a fast jump to AAA and what he is doing there is amazing. In 22 games, Burger is slashing .278/.330/.556 with six home runs, seven doubles, and 18 RBIs. However, his advanced numbers look great as he has a .375 wOBA, 129 wRC+, .321 BABIP, and a .885 OPS. Burger can play third base and at first, plus he can DH, but it would seem hard to find him earn a spot now even if he continues to hit as well. That being said, if Yermin Mercedes continues to struggle, then there has to be some consideration. Otherwise, we may very well see Burger contribute in September.
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