White Sox linked to surprising star player trade with AL Central rival

The Chicago White Sox will be one of the most interesting teams to monitor heading into the MLB trade deadline. The White Sox were expected to be cellar dwellers once again this season, but instead, they are now in first place in the AL Central.

Given Chicago’s shocking success, general manager Chris Getz could decide to buy before Aug. 3. The White Sox are a solid team for sure, but they clearly have some holes that need to be filled. They could use another bat or two in their lineup, and their pitching staff could definitely use some assistance.

But will Chicago actually decide to pull the trigger on some moves in the coming weeks?

MLB insider Robert Murray thinks that the White Sox need to be careful and should be taking “the long-term view” when it comes to the trade deadline, which makes sense. They aren’t ready to win a World Series just yet, and while they are undoubtedly a fun ballclub, their success may also partially be due to playing in such a weak division.

That being said, Murray does think Chicago may look to make some patchwork trades to fill some gaps, and he has identified a very intriguing solution: Kansas City Royals pitcher Michael Wacha.

Chicago White Sox connected to trade for Michael Wacha

Would the Royals really trade Wacha — or any of their top movable pieces — to an AL Central foe? If they can get the best deal, perhaps, and Murray listed Wacha among numerous starters who could pique the White Sox’s interest.

“Perhaps they can snag a pitcher from the Red Sox or, say, a Reid Detmers from the Angels or a Michael Wacha from the Royals. Maybe an outfielder with one of those teams. Who knows. Surely Getz will explore anything,” Murray wrote.

Wacha has logged a 3.44 ERA through 13 starts this season, allowing 66 hits and while registering 67 strikeouts over 81 innings of work. His ERA has been in the 3s ever since 2022, so he has consistently been a solid pitcher for years running now.

The 34-year-old began his big-league career with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2013 and looked like an emerging superstar, making the All-Star team in his third season. However, injuries derailed the right-hander for an extended period of time, and it was looking like he would never regain his footing.

But Wacha has been able to remain moderately healthy for the past five seasons and has rediscovered his mojo, utilizing terrific command of the strike zone to become a consistent and steady presence in his team’s starting rotation.

Given that the White Sox have no reliable options past Davis Martin and Sean Burke, acquiring Wacha would be great … if Kansas City would be alright with that.

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