Despite the most exciting season (and the team’s only playoff appearance) since 2008, the White Sox entered the winter with large gaps to fill. The production in right field, at designated hitter, and in the back of the rotation was quite subpar for a serious contender. The White Sox’s cold streak to end the season could indicate that the team would not sustained its success through a longer season.
The front office was aggressive early on this offseason, trading Dane Dunning and Avery Weems for one year of Lance Lynn. While this is a gamble, it is a sound one given that the White Sox are ready to compete now.