The Chicago White Sox are out of the playoff race and with the trade deadline approaching, MLB trade rumors suggest Chicago will be one of the most active sellers this summer. It means the likes of Lucas Giolito, Tim Anderson and Lance Lynn could all be gone by Aug. 1.
Chicago entered the season with expectations it could compete for the AL Central. However, the White Sox have struggled all year and sit near the bottom of the MLB standings. With the trade deadline approaching, there’s a firm commitment to selling with specific players made available.
- Tim Anderson stats (2023): .236/.277/.276, 0 home runs, 16 RBI, .553 OPS
Related: MLB trade tracker
For weeks, it was assumed that Anderson could stay in Chicago. He’s in the midst of a career-worst season, decimating his trade value and increasing the likelihood that his team option for 2024 will be declined. However, recent developments might’ve shifted the market.
According to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, it’s increasingly possible that Anderson will be traded by the deadline. It’s even more probably if he is willing to play second base, which would add numerous suitors into the mix.
Related: Chicago White Sox fire sale believed to be imminent
- Tim Anderson contract: $23.5 million salary (2023), $14 million club option in 2024
From 2019-’22, Anderson slashed .318/.347/.474 with an .820 OPS. He’s taken a significant step back in 2023, rating as one of the worst hitters in MLB among everyday players. However, Anderson is slashing .274/.324/.323 n his last 68 plate appearances entering MLB games today.
With teams like the Milwaukee Brewers, San Francisco Giants and Seattle Mariners weak at second base, Anderson could be a compelling option. Any MLB club interested in him would likely want to value him as a half-season rental, viewing the $14 million team option as uncertain to be exercised. As long as there are multiple suitors, though, Chicago should receive a quality return.
