White Sox Offseason Needs: Right Field, Internal Edition

This is the first part of a three part series that talks about an offseason need for the White Sox. In this series, it will be talked about how the Pale Hose will need to fill the need of right field for 2021. For the first part of this series, it will talk about the internal options and who are the options that fit best. This does not mean they will go this direction, but it is an option. Let's take a look at some players the club will take into consideration if they go the internal route.

Blake Rutherford

Rutherford was acquired in a trade from the Yankees in 2017 and some looked at him as being a starter in the future. After an excellent 2018, he cooled off in 2019. However, he played as high as AA Birmingham and might be considered coming out of camp. Rutherford is a first round draft pick in 2016, so there is some upside. He does get on base, steals some bases, he does drive in a good amount of runs, and should hit for a decent average. He can play the corners in the outfield, but mostly plays right field. That being said, he is a good athlete and a great defender and the Sox will give him a chance to prove himself for the starting job in Spring Training.

Micker Adolfo

Of all the names here, Adolfo is the most talented. Had it not been for injuries, he would've been seriously considered for a starting role as some see him as a potential All-Star caliber player. Adolfo, in terms of skills, is the most major league ready of the bunch listed here, but injuries have limited his development. He has the best arm in the system and can hit for power. His power is absolutely legit and could make Adolfo a very productive major leaguer. Problem here is injuries, but the Sox may give him a look in Spring Training.

Luis Gonzalez

Probably the most underrated prospect for the White Sox, there is a lot to like about Gonzalez. He's had some pretty good years within the Sox system, but was a disappointment in 2019 although he hit well towards the end of the season. Gonzalez also got some playing time in 2020. That being said, with his skill set, he should be taken seriously for a starting job in right field. He's versatile and can play all over the outfield, but the question will be his bat translating to the majors. He probably will get a chance to prove himself in Spring Training.

Most likely to be the starter: Rutherford. Honestly, there are two things to consider here: 1. Adolfo would have been the starter had it not been for injuries and 2. none of these players are quite ready to be starting players in the major leagues. That being said, of all the players on this list, Rutherford is the closest to being ready to becoming a major league player even though he is not quite there yet. Gonzalez getting playing time in the majors in 2020 might suggest he is more highly thought of than Rutherford, but that might not necessarily be the case in what was a unique situation this year. However, this will be Adolfo's job in the future if he can stay healthy and develops. As for now, Rutherford is the most likely candidate.