The White Sox needed only a few things to check off going into the Trade Deadline. While it wasn't imperative, it seemed like a good idea to go and get a second baseman and got one in Cesar Hernandez. There needed to be reinforcements for the bullpen and were gifted from their crosstown rivals Cubs reliever Ryan Tepera. However, don't think that the White Sox will be satisfied with just these two acquisitions, they'll definitely look to make more. The question will be if they can. Lots of factors go into these decisions, so kicking and screaming about the Sox making a move or not will ultimately do nothing as there so many things to consider. If they don't make another acquisition, fine, but knowing the club they will be looking to add more for sure at the right cost. So, what should/will the front office be looking at before the deadline comes to an end? Let's take a look.
Top Priority: Bullpen
The White Sox relief corps has been inconsistent, but has the ability, depth, and talent to be great. That being said, it always helps to get more relievers at the trade deadline as you cannot have enough dependable arms. Ryan Tepera is a step in the right direction, but the Sox probably need one or two more if they want to make a deep playoff run. Names to consider on the market are Richard Rodriguez and Paul Fry as they have been linked to the Pale Hose. Another name to consider is Craig Kimbrel, but the likelihood of them acquiring him is low because it might be too high of a price for the club as it could either be because they are not willing to meet the demands or simply don't have prospect capital to do so. Other names that might be worth checking in on are Andrew Miller, Joakim Soria, Daniel Bard, Ian Kennedy, and Yimi Garcia. Either way, the Sox need more bullpen help and if they can get one or two more, then this was a very successful trade deadline.
Not A Priority, But Nice To Get: An Outfield Bat
After the acquisition of Cesar Hernandez, getting another bat doesn't seem necessary at this point. That being said, it would be nice to bring in another, but for the right price. With Luis Robert and Yasmani Grandal returning from injury and a likelihood of a platoon between Adam Engel and Gavin Sheets in right field, it will be hard for the Sox to acquire someone. However, don't be surprised if the team does go out and get one because it never hurts to bring in a proven bat to lead them to World Series glory. Some names to consider are Whit Merrifield, Adam Duvall, David Peralta, Robbie Grossman, and Trey Mancini. Another player that the fanbase seems to be infatuated with acquiring is Kris Bryant as he does provide positional versatility and a good bat, which is very sexy. But, the Sox are probably unlikely to want to acquire Bryant's services considering how much he would cost in terms of prospects as that could be detrimental to the team's long term success as it would deplete the club's depth in what is becoming a thinner and thinner farm system. Duvall and Grossman are intriguing options as they wouldn't command too much.
Now the Sox could shock everyone with the moves they make as a big splash is possible. But a big splash is not needed and it would be likely something the team would do in the offseason. If the Pale Hose want to make a deep run in the playoffs, then it would be wise to reinforce the bullpen anyway they can.
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