The Chicago White Sox are on a roll, folks. After a stellar 5-1 performance last week and a strong start against the Angels, they’ve climbed into an AL Wild Card spot.
But are they getting the recognition they deserve from the national media? Let’s dive into how the major publications are ranking the team this week.
First off, there’s no ignoring the electrifying Munetaka Murakami. The slugger has been lighting up the scoreboard, but let’s not forget his teammate Colson Montgomery, who’s been nearly matching Murakami’s power. Montgomery has homered in the same game as Murakami seven times in their first 35 games-a record-setting duo in MLB history, according to Sarah Langs.
In the latest rankings, Will Leitch bumped the White Sox up from No. 27.
Murakami added two more home runs to his tally, but the unexpected star was Drew Romo. Called up just ten days ago, Romo, who had zero homers in his first 61 major league plate appearances, hit three home runs this week, making a splash in his new role.
USA Today also recognized the White Sox’s upward momentum, moving them from No. 30 to No. 26. Noah Schultz’s performance on the mound, with eight strikeouts in six innings, has been a highlight.
CBS Sports has them at No. 22, an improvement from No. 26.
The White Sox’s ability to heat up quickly is a refreshing change for fans who endured a challenging 2024 season. They’re just 1ยฝ games out of first place, keeping the excitement alive.
Matt Snyder from CBS is all aboard the White Sox bandwagon. Murakami’s chase to break Shohei Ohtani’s home run record is worth the hype, and with potential call-ups like Colson Montgomery, the future looks promising for Chicago, especially in the AL Central.
NBC Sports, ranking them at No. 25, highlights the team’s 10-5 record over their last 15 games. While Murakami grabs headlines, pitchers Sean Burke and Davis Martin have been quietly delivering with ERAs of 2.72 and 1.95, respectively.
FanGraphs and The Athletic both placed the White Sox at No. 24, noting Murakami’s power and potential as a Home Run Derby headliner. His ability to draw walks and hit with power makes him a standout, despite a high strikeout rate.
ESPN kept the White Sox steady at No. 29, focusing on the contributions from young infielders Miguel Vargas and Colson Montgomery. Vargas, part of the trade that sent Michael Kopech to the Dodgers, is finding his groove with an OPS of .805. Montgomery continues to impress with a solid slash line and dependable defense.
Baseball America has them at No. 27, noting the successful development of players like Noah Schultz, whose fastball-slider combo is making waves in the majors.
In summary, the White Sox are turning heads with their recent performances, driven by standout players and promising young talent. As they continue to climb the rankings, keep an eye on this team-they’re making a compelling case for postseason contention.
