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**Right below is the White Sox Top 20 list simplified. Scroll further down for FULL Present/Future Grades, FV, ETA, and summaries on EACH PLAYER ranked in the system! Tons of Statistics on each player as well! Some player highlights, future outlooks and more enjoy!**
| Rank | Name | Position | How Acquired |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Andrew Vaughn | 1B | 2019 MLB Draft: 1st Round – 3rd Overall |
| 2 | Garrett Crochet | LHP | 2020 MLB Draft 1st Round – 11th Overall |
| 3 | Nick Madrigal | 2B | 2018 MLB Draft 1st Round – 4th Overall |
| 4 | Michael Kopech | RHP | Trade with Red Sox |
| 5 | Codi Heuer | RHP | 2018 MLB Draft: 6th Round |
| 6 | Jonathan Stiever | RHP | 2018 MLB Draft: 5th Round Pick |
| 7 | Jared Kelley | RHP | 2020 MLB Draft: 2nd Round Pick |
| 8 | Andrew Dalquist | RHP | 2019 MLB Draft: 3rd Round Pick |
| 9 | Matthew Thompson | RHP | 2019 MLB Draft: 2nd Round Pick |
| 10 | Benyamin Bailey | OF | International FA Signing 2019 |
| 11 | Gavin Sheets | 1B | 2017 MLB Draft: 2nd Round Pick |
| 12 | Blake Rutherford | OF | Trade with Yankees |
| 13 | Luis Gonzalez | OF | 2017 MLB Draft: 3rd Round Pick |
| 14 | Micker Adolfo | OF | International FA Signing 2013 |
| 15 | Norge Vera | RHP | International FA Signing 2020 |
| 16 | Jose Rodriguez | INF | International FA Signing 2018 |
| 17 | Elijah Tatis | SS | International FA Signing 2019 |
| 18 | James Beard | OF | 2019 MLB Draft: 4th Round Pick |
| 19 | Bryan Ramos | 3B | International FA Signing 2018 |
| 20 | DJ Gladney | 3B | 2019 MLB Draft: 16th Round Pick |
1. Andrew Vaughn – 1B – (A+)
22 Years Old – Bat: R – Throw: R – Ht: 6’0 Wt: 210lbs – ETA: 2021
| Hit | Raw Power | Power | Speed | Field | Arm | FV |
| 50/60 | 70/70 | 50/60 | 40/35 | 45/50 | 45/45 | 60 |
| AVG | OBP | SLG | OPS | HR | SB | CS | K% | BB% |
| .278 | .384 | .449 | .832 | 6 | 0 | 1 | 15.5% | 12.2% |
| ISO | wRC+ | SwStr% | GB% | LD% | FB% | Pull% | Cent% | Oppo% |
| .171 | 141 | 9.3% | 40.2% | 22.6% | 37.2% | 44.7% | 22.4% | 32.9% |
The undisputed top prospect for the White Sox is none other than the right-handed masher Andrew Vaughn. After posting nearly a 1.200 career OPS in the Pac-12, Vaughn was selected 3rd overall in the 2019 draft. He showed well in his first taste of pro ball last year, notably carrying a 30:38 BB:K ratio and slugging 23 XBHs in 56 games.
Now with over a year of development with a professional organization, even with the loss of the 2020 MiLB season, Vaughn is looking like the future for the White Sox at 1B/DH. He isn’t a typical long-levered power hitter though. Listed at just 6’0, his height actually plays to his advantage, allowing him to have a direct approach and a compact, yet explosive swing. His frame is filled out, but he rotates incredibly well and shows exceptional athleticism in the swing.
With Jose Abreu locked up for the next few years, I would expect the White Sox to ease Vaughn into the team, though some type of 2021 debut is still most likely in play. The two would probably rotate between 1B and DH since Vaughn’s defense isn’t great enough to relegate Abreu to full-time DH, but full-time at bats and solid production to go with are more than likely once Vaughn gets called up.
Report by: Danny Brackman, @d__brack
2. Garrett Crochet – LHP – Chicago White Sox (MLB)
21 Years Old – Bat: L – Throw: L – Ht: 6’6 Wt: 218lbs- ETA: 2020
| Fastball | Slider | Changeup | Command | FV |
| 70/80 | 55/60 | 40/45 | 40/45 | 55 |
Not Enough Stats to Post
The White Sox selected Crochet with their 1st round Pick (11th Overall) in the 2020 MLB Draft and made his MLB Debut without making an appearance in the minor leagues (mostly due to the COVID-19 canceled MiLB Season,. But nonetheless, Crochet threw his 1st pitch in-game action for the White Sox in a big-league game, in the middle of a postseason run. Although Chris Sale had some innings in the minors underneath him, this is a similar situation to what they did with Sale, and it paid off when they called his name. Crochet went on to dominate in his short stint in the regular season: 8 IP 0 ER 8 K 0 BB .50 WHIP; 0 extra-base hits allowed.
Crochet works with a 3 pitch mix, that heavily relies on his Fastball/Slider combo, while occasionally mixing in a below-average Changeup to RHH. His Fastball in 2020 averaged 100.1 MPH out of the bullpen… with 2500 RPM. Clearly, a weapon to be used. The Slider works in the upper 80s and has true wipeout potential. Flashes double-plus at times, although a bit too inconsistently, and should settle as a true Plus with high swing and miss %. Rounding out the arsenal is that below-average Changeup generally sitting 89-92 MPH. If/when he gets the chance to start, he will need to at least mix in the Changeup a bit more frequently against those RHH to get them off his Fastball.
Crochet himself has said he’s open to whatever role the White Sox have for him moving forward. Considering their investment in him, it would be foolish to not give him a shot in some capacity to see if he can stick as a Starting pitcher. When he gets that chance he will work those secondaries in more frequently. A quote from Rick Hahn. “We view him as an impactful starter, but we certainly can’t ignore what he looked like when he was coming out of the bullpen, either”. In my opinion, where Crochet starts 2020, will have a big imprint on his future role.
Crochet left his final outing in the postseason with an arm issue but is said to be progressing well and should be a full go come spring training.
Report by: Jake Tillinghast, @JTillinghast27
3. Nick Madrigal – 2B – Chicago White Sox (MLB)
Years Old – Bat: R – Throw: R – Ht: 5’8 Wt: 175lbs – ETA: 2020
| Hit | Raw Power | Power | Speed | Field | Arm | FV |
| 55/60 | 40/40 | 30/30 | 55/55 | 50/50 | 60/60 | 55 |
| AVG | OBP | SLG | OPS | HR | SB | CS | K% | BB% |
| .311 | .377 | .414 | .792 | 4 | 35 | 13 | 3.0% | 8.3% |
| ISO | wRC+ | SwStr% | GB% | LD% | FB% | Pull% | Cent% | Oppo% |
| .104 | 125 | 2.2% | 49.5% | 18.9% | 31.6% | 41.1% | 20.4% | 38.5% |
Madrigal was one of the more hyped up prospects from the 2018 MLB draft, when the White Sox picked him 4th overall. While Madrigal has a lack of power, his hit tool will carry him going forward. He debuted in 2020, hitting .340/.376/.369 in 109 plate appearances.
Madrigal has a closed stance with a small leg kick that provides some power, even when he’s off-balanced and out of rhythm with his swing mechanics his bat control produces a plethora of base hits. Madrigal not only will hit for a high average but takes his walks and will get on-base at a high rate. One of the better traits of Madrigal is his two-strike approach and amazing ability to not strikeout. To put this into perspective, in 814 plate appearances in his career, Madrigal has only struck out 28 times. Defensively, he’s athletic enough to stick at second base, even with his average arm strength. His plus speed and aggressiveness makes him a good runner.
While Madrigal is undersized than most second baseman, his hit tool is good with great bat control and he’s already shown he can hit at the major league level, he’s the future leadoff hitter for the White Sox and looks to be a factor in their lineup for years to come.
Report by: Drake Mann, @DrakeMann4
4. Michael Kopech – RHP – Chicago White Sox (MLB)
24 Years Old – Bat: R – Throw: R – Ht: 6’3 – Wt: 225lbs
| Fastball | Curveball | Slider | Changeup | Command | FV |
| 80/80 | 50/55 | 55/60 | 45/50 | 45/50 | 50+ |
No Stats for 2019
Drafted by the Red Sox back in 2014, Kopech started to become one of their best pitching talents until he was part of the trade that saw Chris Sale make his way to Fenway Park in 2016. Kopech had 342 Ks in 2 seasons within the White Sox organization, as well as a handful of Majors appearances, before TJ Surgery wiped out his chances of a 2019 season. He optioned out of the COVID-19 season.
Before his surgery, he was working his fastball around 95-99mph. It had late run and was regularly hitting triple digits. He threw 100mph consistently at Spring Training, overpowering hitters on a regular basis.
He was also blowing away hitters with his 85-89mph slider that had a 2-plane break before TJ, and it didn’t look like changing in Spring Training. There seemed to be more control over the pitch, emphasizing his focus on improving his breaking balls.
His curveball wasn’t one of his stronger pitches but he spent the majority of the off-season working on this. Alongside his slider, it has enabled him to become more of a pitcher than a thrower. His upper-70s velocity with downward movement complements his power pitches. There were problems with his changeup pre-TJ, as it was too firm, but he has worked on this, although not to the level to use regularly.
There may be some questions on his sharpness post-TJ, as well as missing the 2020 season, but he came back strong in Spring Training. This can be accompanied by more time to work on his weaker pitches, enabling him to lay down the marker of being a starter come 2021.
Report by: Jake Tweedie, @MLBUKAnalysis1
5. Codi Heuer – RHP – Chicago White Sox (MLB)
24 Years Old – Bats: R – Throws: R – Ht: 6’5” – Wt: 195lbs – ETA: 2021
| Fastball | Slider | Changeup | Command | FV |
| 60/60 | 55/60 | 50/55 | 45/50 | 50 |
| IP | G | GS | ERA | WHIP | K% | BB% | HR/9 |
| 67.2 | 42 | 0 | 2.39 | 1.09 | 23.6% | 5.5% | 0.00 |
| SwStr% | xFIP | GB% | LD% | FB% | Pull% | Cent% | Oppo% |
| 15.1% | 2.79 | 63.2% | 14.6% | 22.2% | 46.1% | 23.6% | 30.4% |
Heuer was the White Sox 6th round pick in 2018, he’s started to open some eyes with his stuff and mound presence. Heuer started his career off on a positive note after he made his debut in 2020, pitching to a 1.52 ERA, 0.88 WHIP and a 27.1 K% in 23.1 innings pitched.
Mechanically, he throws from a three-quarter arm slot and creates deception by throwing across his body and getting good extension on his pitches. In terms of stuff, Heuer has a fastball that is consistently 97-98 MPH with heavy sink and above-average spin (2,359 RPM), his secondaries include a slider with a lot of bite even while having below-average spin rates (about 2100 RPM), and a changeup that he can spot down in the zone consistently and generates plenty of swing and miss with its late vertical drop. There’s some injury risk with Heuer because of his funky mechanics, but if he stays healthy the stuff that Heuer possesses could propel him to a comfortable back end of the bullpen role for the White Sox long term.
Report by: Drake Mann, @DrakeMann4
6. Jonathan Stiever – RHP – Chicago White Sox (MLB)
23 Years Old – Bat: R – Throw: R – Ht: 6’2 – Wt: 215lbs – ETA: 2020
| Fastball | Curveball | Slider | Changeup | Command | FV |
| 55/55 | 55/55 | 45/50 | 40/50 | 45/55 | 45 |
| IP | G | GS | ERA | WHIP | K% | BB% | HR/9 |
| 145.0 | 26 | 26 | 3.48 | 1.18 | 25.9% | 4.5% | 1.06 |
| SwStr% | xFIP | GB% | LD% | FB% | Pull% | Cent% | Oppo% |
| 13.3% | 3.07 | 42.5% | 15.3% | 42.3% | 41.8% | 25.9% | 32.3% |
Drafted in the 5th Round in 2018, he turned in an impressive first full season in 2019 despite being drafted lower than expected. This resulted in a call-up to the Majors in 2020. His ability to pick up consistent strikes, 193 in 173inns, as well as just 36 walks, saw him become the best healthy pitching prospect for the White Sox.
His fastball usually sits in the low-90s, but its run and sink can allow it to come across with more velocity than it has. There is the potential to reach the upper-90s. and this could be achievable with continued work on his mechanics and discipline on the mound.
His best secondary is his spike curveball that sits upper-70s. He has sold control over it and it is potentially the best curveball in the White Sox system. He had the habit of turning his CB into a slider in the Majors but was punished heavily after hanging up too many of the pitches in the zone. There is a feel for a changeup, but more work is needed before it becomes a regular pitch.
His athleticism on the mound allows him to be an exciting pitcher for the future. With the lack of healthy pitchers within the system, Stiever could be relied upon more to utilize the consistent strike-ability that could see him become a starter in the Majors.
Report by: Jake Tweedie, @MLBUKAnalysis1
7. Jared Kelley – RHP – 2020 Draftee
19 Years Old – Bat: R – Throw: R – Ht: 6’3 – Wt: 215lbs – ETA
| Fastball | Slider | Changeup | Command | FV |
| 60/70 | 35/50 | 45/60 | 35/50 | 45 |
NO PROFESSIONAL STATS
Jared Kelley is your traditional old fashion, workhorse type flamethrower who is consistently pumping in mid-high 90s Fastballs that touch 100 MPH on occasion, with below-average spin rates. His best secondary is easily his Changeup, which will settle as an easy Plus. Tunneling well off the Fastball, and shows solid command of the pitch and ability to use it as a go-to out pitch late in counts to RHH/LHH. The Slider lacks bite and overall consistency. There has been some progress made with the pitch according to some reports coming out of White Sox camp this Fall, but until he gets into game action in 2021, there’s no telling where the progress truly will be at.
There’s not a ton of physical projection left here with Kelley, but there is a lot of development left in his game to become the prospect the White Sox think he can be. A lot of it will ride on how that Slider develops and if he is able to find a way to get that bite and consistency, which should lead to more swing and miss % and soft contact and a 3rd pitch that will help him get through the order multiple times.
Report by: Jake Tillinghast, @JTillinghast27
8. Andrew Dalquist – RHP – AZL White Sox (ROK)
20 Years Old – Bat: R – Throw: R – Ht: 6’1 – Wt: 175lbs – ETA: 2023
| Fastball | Curveball | Slider | Changeup | Command | FV |
| 50/55 | 50/55 | 40/50 | 40/50 | 45/55 | 45 |
| IP | G | GS | ERA | WHIP | K% | BB% | HR/9 |
| 3.0 | 3 | 3 | 0.00 | 1.33 | 15.4% | 15.4% | 0.00 |
| SwStr% | xFIP | GB% | LD% | FB% | Pull% | Cent% | Oppo% |
| 11.8% | 6.02 | 33.3% | 22.2% | 44.4% | 33.3% | 22.2% | 44.4% |
Drafted last year, the right-hander signed for double his slot value. Although he only made a few appearances in 2019, he developed himself further in the Summer by adding a slider to his already impressive arsenal. The White Sox would have hoped for more action for him in 2020, but it gave them valuable time to work on his pitches.
His fastball usually sits in the low-90s range, with some life and deception due to his long-range. He struggled to produce real velocity before his Senior year, but done so just in time for the Draft. There’s plenty of projectability, especially with his mechanics, so his velocity could increase even further.
He added a slider whilst with the training camp in the Summer. It will need significant work before it is an effective tool but should complement what he currently has. His curveball sits mid-70s with good depth, yet lacks real power to cause problems. It has the potential to be a swing-and-miss pitch with more work. His changeup wasn’t used that regularly so will need a lot of exposure to gain an understanding of where it is.
There’s plenty of projection due to his size and frame, but there is work needed to allow for a greater ceiling rather than just the high floor he currently has.
Report by: Jake Tweedie, @MLBUKAnalysis1
9. Matthew Thompson – RHP – Kannapolis Cannon Ballers (A)
20 Years Old – Bats: R – Throws: R – 6’3” – 195 lbs – ETA: 2024
| Fastball | Curveball | Slider | Changeup | Command | FV |
| 50/55 | 50/55 | 50/55 | 45/55 | 45/55 | 45 |
Not Enough Stats to Post
Thompson was the White Sox 2nd round pick in 2019, he could become the biggest draft steal if he hits his ceiling as a solid #3 starter. Thompson has a fluid and repeatable delivery with a solid lower half and a three-quarter arm slot. He creates deception with a slight hesitation in his delivery at times.
In terms of stuff, Thompson’s fastball operates 93-94 MPH and has touched 96 MPH, it’s mostly straight but plays up just because of his ability to command both sides of the plate. His secondaries include a slider in the mid-80’s with plenty of late bite to it, his changeup is disguised well with his arm speed and has the potential to be a solid offering with its fade and location down in the zone. In the end, Thompson has some velocity projection with his frame and will be an interesting piece for the White Sox if he stays healthy and everything clicks.
Report by: Drake Mann, @DrakeMann4
10. Benyamin Bailey – OF – White Sox (DSL)
19 Years Old – Bat: R – Throw: R – Ht: 6’4 – Wt: 215lbs
| Hit | Raw Power | Power | Speed | Arm | Field | FV |
| 30/55 | 50/60 | 30/55 | 50/45 | 45/50 | 40/50 | 40+ |
| AVG | OBP | SLG | OPS | HR | SB | CS | K% | BB% |
| .327 | .477 | .454 | .931 | 10 | 2 | 10 | 16.5% | 21.4% |
| ISO | wRC+ | SwStr% | GB% | LD% | FB% | Pull% | Cent% | Oppo% |
| .130 | 166 | 22.1% | 54.3% | 19.3% | 26.4% | 50.0% | 20.9% | 29.1% |
Benyamin Bailey was signed for a measly $35,000 out of Panama during the 2018/19 J2 Signing period. Bailey performed exceptionally well 1st taste of pro ball, a 55 game stint in the DSL. There is a good amount of Power behind the 6’4 frame that has filled out well at an early age and starting to show off some loud power during instructa this fall.
One of the most impressive things Bailey showed during his time in the DSL was his ability patience at the plate, 52 BB (21.5%) to 40 K (16.5%). If Bailey is able to maintain strong walk rates and keep that patience at the plate, with his developing power this could be a very interesting profile developing in the lower levels of the White Sox system, who came into the organization with low expectations and already looking like a potential steal. He has a good feel for the barrel and doesn’t look to sell out for Power, which is a nice thing to see from a young prospect with his size.
When Bailey was signed, he had some interesting movement going on with his feet in the box, best i can describe it as, was happy feet, he would take a bit of a step inward or back with his back foot in the middle of his loading phase. the video below was from instructs this fall and seems like the foot is a bit more planted and using a lot of that lower half to help generate his in game power. I think 2020 could be a loud year for Bailey and find himself inside the Top 5-7 Prospects in the system by this time next year, the upside is truly fun to keep an eye on. A LF Profile with the bat ultimately being the carrying tools.
Report by: Jake Tillinghast, @JTillinghast27
11. Gavin Sheets – 1B – Birmingham Barons (AA)
24 Years Old – Bats: L – Throws: L – 6’4” – 230lbs – ETA: 2022
| Hit | Raw Power | Power | Speed | Arm | Field | FV |
| 40/45 | 70/70 | 45/60 | 50/50 | 50/50 | 45/50 | 40 |
| AVG | OBP | SLG | OPS | HR | SB | CS | K% | BB% |
| .267 | .345 | .414 | .759 | 16 | 3 | 1 | 18.8% | 10.2% |
| ISO | wRC+ | SwStr% | GB% | LD% | FB% | Pull% | Cent% | Oppo% |
| .147 | 122 | 8.9% | 42.1% | 18.9% | 39.1% | 42.2% | 24.3% | 33.5% |
Sheets was the White Sox 2nd round pick in 2017 and the White Sox might’ve struck gold with the power potential that Sheets possesses. In 2019, Sheets impressed not only with his power blasting 16 home runs but also got on-base at a respectable rate at .345, with a .350 wOBA and a 122 wRC+ in 527 plate appearances.
Sheets natural lofty swing provides a lot of flyball contact, that’ll help him reach his 25-30 home run potential, he has a feel for finding the barrel consistently and should be a quick accent through the minors. He hits to all fields well which in turn, could make him into an excellent extra base hitter and a run producer in the middle of the lineup for the White Sox. While he isn’t as gifted defensively, he could carve out a role as a first baseman with his average defense and below-average speed, but a more realistic spot would be designated hitter. In conclusion, Sheets still needs to figure out a few problems with his approach against lefties for him to hit his potential of being a bat first starter for the White Sox.
Report by: Drake Mann, @DrakeMann4
12. Blake Rutherford – OF – Birmingham Barons (AA)
23 Years Old – Bat: L – Throw: R – Ht: 6’3 – Wt: 210lbs – ETA: 2021
| Hit | Raw Power | Power | Speed | Arm | Field | FV |
| 40/50 | 45/50 | 40/45 | 50/50 | 45/45 | 45/50 | 40 |
| AVG | OBP | SLG | OPS | HR | SB | CS | K% | BB% |
| .265 | .319 | .365 | .684 | 7 | 9 | 2 | 24.6% | 7.7% |
| ISO | wRC+ | SwStr% | GB% | LD% | FB% | Pull% | Cent% | Oppo% |
| .100 | 98 | 17.6% | 50.2% | 19.6% | 30.3% | 42.0% | 22.1% | 35.9% |
Drafted by the Yankees for a record for a hitter at $3.2m, he was traded to the White Sox in the Summer of 2017. He has shown steady progression in his Minors career, but a poor AZFL in the off-season knocked his momentum slightly, although a solid camp should put him back on track.
His smooth action allows him to make easy contact with the ball. There were some concerns about his power game not quite being there yet, but in camp he looked like he put on some muscle, thus increasing the chances of him fulfilling that potential. He looked far more comfortable at training camp, albeit in easier conditions. The utilization of his raw power should allow him to make louder contact with the ball, and hopefully, he can continue to work around the field as he did before. His in-game pop saw more pull so needs to be consistently around the field.
Fielding isn’t his biggest strength. His below-average arm sees him in more of a corner outfield role, with the added hope that his bat plays up to the position. He had played RF regularly in 2019 but has the capability of playing anywhere in the OF.
There is a buzz around him being able to work on his power, and if he does so then he could be called up to the Majors as soon as 2021.
Report by: Jake Tweedie, @MLBUKAnalysis1
13. Micker Adolfo – OF – Birmingham Barons (AA)
24 Years Old – Bats: R – Throws: R – 6’4” – 240lbs – ETA: 2022
| Hit | Raw Power | Power | Speed | Arm | Field | FV |
| 30/40 | 60/60 | 40/60 | 45/45 | 60/60 | 50/50 | 40 |
NO STATS DUE TO INJURY
Aldofo was signed by the White Sox for $1.6 million in 2013, at the time Aldofo was a 16-year-old outfielder with tremendous upside. Fastforward, Micker is now a 24-year-old outfield prospect that has lost some steam in terms of upside but overall still could be a solid piece in the long term.
Aldofo has a straight-up stance in the box and has good raw power with a small leg kick. His bat path creates some loft that enables him to hit the low ball well and is fun to watch with the pop in his bat. One of the major concerns with Micker Adolfo, is his health as Adolfo had Tommy John surgery before the 2019 season and hasn’t been able to put together a healthy season. Continuing on, his strikeout rates continue to hover around 30%. If he can start making more contact and stays healthy, he could sneak in the White Sox future plans in the outfield. He has plus arm strength and profiles more as a right fielder with his tools and average speed. Aldofo hasn’t had the chance to show his potential with him being hurt in 2019 and no minor league season in 2020. Adolfo is a prospect to watch in 2021, will we finally see what the White Sox have been waiting for since they signed him in 2013.
Report by: Drake Mann, @DrakeMann4
14. Norge Vera – RHP – 2020 J2 Signee
Age: 20 – Bat: R – Throw: R – Ht: 6’4 Wt: 190lbs – ETA: 2023
| Fastball | Curveball | Slider | Changeup | Command | FV |
| 50/60 | 40/55 | 35/50 | 40/50 | 35/55 | 40 |
No Professional Stats
The son of legendary Cuban National pitcher (Norge L. Vera), Norge C. is looking to make a name for himself by joining the White Sox during the upcoming international signing period. Already 20, which is rather old for an international prospect, Vera brings a dynamic pitcher’s body to the table for the Sox to work with. Listed at 6’4 and 190 LBs, Vera has plenty of room to add some strength going forward.
Vera already touches 95+ with his fastball and has great control over his body and mechanics. There are areas to clean up with his arm action and lower half, though I feel he will be able to do so with his bloodlines and innate feel for the game. He’s already spent time in the US since defecting from Cuba last year and has been working on his off-speed stuff, most notably the change. His feel on the mound and relatively old age for an international prospect could allow him to be a rather quick mover through the minors, and if he’s able to add some functional strength while continuing developing his game, Sox fans might have another very fun pitcher to watch in a couple years.
Report by: Danny Brackman, @d__brack
15. Luis Gonzalez – OF – Birmingham Barons (AA)
25 Years Old – Bat: L – Throw: L – Ht: 6’1 – Wt: 180lbs – ETA: 2020
| Hit | Raw Power | Power | Speed | Arm | Field | FV |
| 45/55 | 45/45 | 30/40 | 55/55 | 50/50 | 45/50 | 40 |
| AVG | OBP | SLG | OPS | HR | SB | CS | K% | BB% |
| .247 | .316 | .359 | .675 | 9 | 17 | 9 | 16.6% | 8.8% |
| ISO | wRC+ | SwStr% | GB% | LD% | FB% | Pull% | Cent% | Oppo% |
| .112 | 96 | 7.9% | 47.3% | 19.1% | 33.6% | 40.9% | 22.7% | 36.4% |
The former two-way player was drafted as an outfielder in 2017 after impressing as a Junior. He continued his momentum in 2017 and 2018 before his contact slightly decreased in 2019. Usually renowned for his high batting average, he focused on slightly more power in 2019. Although it didn’t affect his output too much, it shows a change in mentality at the plate. There was a Majors call-up in 2020.
When he is focusing more on contact than power, he is regularly hitting line drives into the outfield and using his speed between the bases to push for XBHs. His open stance allows him to pull the ball with ease down the 1B line. He has the ability to spray the ball around the field, but his over-reliance on being aggressive in AA saw his stock decrease slightly as his BA lowered. His contact first approach saw him record 59 XBHs in 2018, 40 of them doubles. This figure significantly decreased to 31 XBHs, with just 18 doubles in 2019. More emphasis on this approach should see him start higher in the order and use his ability to get on base to create scoring opportunities.
Although he is only an average defender, his arm and versatility highlight him as a potential 4th outfielder. He is competent in the field and can make plays with his instincts and speed, but his bat may see him stick at CF in the long term.
2020 was due to be a make or break season for him considering he is 25 years old and not reached past AA. This may have changed slightly due to the circumstances, but time will tell to see how he is used within the White Sox organization.
Report by: Jake Tweedie, @MLBUKAnalysis1
16. Jose Rodriguez – 2B – AZL White Sox (ROK)
19 Years Old – Bats: R – Throws: R – 5’11” – 175lbs – ETA: 2024
| Hit | Raw Power | Power | Speed | Arm | Field | FV |
| 30/55 | 40/50 | 30/45 | 50/50 | 50/50 | 45/50 | 40 |
| AVG | OBP | SLG | OPS | HR | SB | CS | K% | BB% |
| .293 | .328 | .505 | .834 | 9 | 7 | 1 | 22.5% | 4.5% |
| ISO | wRC+ | SwStr% | GB% | LD% | FB% | Pull% | Cent% | Oppo% |
| .213 | 121 | 32.8% | 36.4% | 17.9% | 45.7% | 44.4% | 25.7% | 29.9% |
The White Sox signed Rodriguez for $50,000 in 2018, there’s plenty of projection with Rodriguez, and there’s a decent chance this is a worthy investment from the White Sox. Rodriguez, has some power potential and could 15+ home runs a season. His bat speed, and ability to spray the ball allows him to have an above-average hit tool. In his pro debut, he hit .291/.318/.401. In his second season, he started hitting for more power, blasting nine home runs in 200 plate appearances.
Defensively, he profiles better as a second baseman with his average arm strength and range, he’s also played shortstop and third base in his career. While he has average speed, he’s not a liability on the base paths and could turn into a respectable base runner in the end. Rodriguez, has started off his pro career well, it’ll be interesting to see him adjust to the high level of the minors on his way to the MLB.
Report by: Drake Mann, @DrakeMann4
17. Elijah Tatis – SS – DSL White Sox (DSL)
Age: 19 – Bat: R – Throw: R – Ht: 5’11 Wt: 180lbs – ETA: 2024
| Hit | Raw Power | Power | Speed | Arm | Field | FV |
| 35/55 | 35/45 | 30/40 | 60/55 | 60/60 | 60/70 | 40 |
| AVG | OBP | SLG | OPS | HR | SB | CS | K% | BB% |
| .187 | .300 | .213 | .513 | 0 | 5 | 1 | 17.8% | 14.4% |
| ISO | wRC+ | SwStr% | GB% | LD% | FB% | Pull% | Cent% | Oppo% |
| .027 | 58 | 27.3% | 48.3% | 19.0% | 32.8% | 37.7% | 29.5% | 32.8% |
Yes, the White Sox have another Tatis. He isn’t as big or strong as his brother Nando, but Elijah brings his own qualities to the table that their father Nando Sr. claims to be the better set of skills out of the two. Now I’m not sure how realistic that is yet, but Elijah is already showing the Sox what his father is talking about.
Elijah is already a plus defender, and his athleticism and feel for the shortstop position could see him eventually getting to double-plus. He has the arm strength to make all the throws and the range to make all the plays. The biggest question about the younger Tatis will be how his body fills out as he ages.
Offensively, Elijah has a compact swing geared for shooting the gaps, though he has the hands and barrel accuracy for more. Even though it’s likely he won’t ever get to the power that his brother has, Elijah still has the capability to be a solid offensive contributor as opposed to a defense-only prospect. He is still a few years of development away from the big leagues, though his premium defense could see him pushed up the ladder relatively quickly. How the bat develops as he climbs will be the ultimate deciding factor in Tatis’ overall value.
Report by Danny Brackman, @d__brack
18. James Beard – OF – AZL White Sox (ROK)
20 Years Old – Bat: R – Throw: R – Ht: 5’10 – Wt: 170lbs – ETA: 2023
| Hit | Raw Power | Power | Speed | Arm | Field | FV |
| 25/45 | 30/40 | 20/40 | 80/80 | 45/45 | 50/55 | 40 |
| AVG | OBP | SLG | OPS | HR | SB | CS | K% | BB% |
| .213 | .270 | .307 | .577 | 2 | 9 | 3 | 39.1% | 5.8% |
| ISO | wRC+ | SwStr% | GB% | LD% | FB% | Pull% | Cent% | Oppo% |
| .094 | 61 | 44.3% | 54.3% | 12.9% | 32.9% | 58.1% | 14.9% | 27.0% |
The outfielder from Mississippi drew mixed reviews after his high school season, due to a lack of quality pitching and heavy emphasis on his speed and athleticism. The White Sox took a gamble on him in the 4th round, hoping that his bat would develop to make him a dangerous on-base threat.
Despite his quickness between the bases, he struggled in his first season in pro ball due to his high strikeout rate and lack of chances to get on base.
His strong hands and quick bat speed allows him to make nice contact with the ball when he does so. His timing and pitch recognition seems to be slightly off, but even his misfit grounders can lead to singles due to his acceleration off the plate. If he can work on his swing, and make contact on a regular basis, then he has the potential to hit XBHs, as well as picking up plenty of SBs. There is potential with the way his swing works, it just lacks conviction and consistency. From his hits in the Minors, he targets the gaps in the field before using his speed to push for doubles or triples. With more development, there could be a chance of reaching the HR line.
His speed certainly helps him in the outfield. He can get to the ball quickly but just needs to work on his running routes in the field. His arm isn’t the best, but his speed makes up for it as he gets to the ball early and releases early. He has good range, and his athleticism helps him make plays.
Report by: Jake Tweedie, @MLBUKAnalysis1
19. Bryan Ramos – 3B – AZL White Sox (ROK)
18 Years Old – Bat: R – Throw: R – Ht: 6’2 – Wt: 190lbs – ETA: 2024
| Hit | Raw Power | Power | Speed | Arm | Field | FV |
| 20/40 | 45/50 | 25/50 | 45/45 | 55/55 | 40/45 | 35+ |
| AVG | OBP | SLG | OPS | HR | SB | CS | K% | BB% |
| .277 | .353 | .415 | .768 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 20.2% | 8.7% |
| ISO | wRC+ | SwStr% | GB% | LD% | FB% | Pull% | Cent% | Oppo% |
| .138 | 110 | 22.3% | 43.7% | 16.9% | 39.4% | 51.7% | 30.9% | 17.4% |
The youngster was signed in 2018 but made his Rookie debut last year at just 17. Alongside DJ Gladney, the White Sox had high hopes for their 2 youngest players in pro ball. The Cuban won the battle as he performed effectively with the bat and in the field.
There is a sense of rawness with Ramos. He has the strength and ability to make loud contact, but his pitch recognition lets him down and he struggles to make loud contact on a regular basis. With more exposure to pro ball that should develop, but he showed his ability to hit around the field, predominantly to the pull side.
Defensively his above-average arm works in his favor, but he lacks real accuracy and range to suit the 3B position. There is some potential for his bat to play up to the position, but his size and frame could be better suited in the infield.
Report by: Jake Tweedie, @MLBUKAnalysis1
20. DJ Gladney – 3B – AZL White Sox (ROK)
19 Years Old – Bat: R – Throw: R – Ht: 6’3 – Wt: 195lbs – ETA: 2024
| Hit | Raw Power | Power | Speed | Arm | Field | FV |
| 20/40 | 40/50 | 25/50 | 45/40 | 50/50 | 35/40 | 35+ |
| AVG | OBP | SLG | OPS | HR | SB | CS | K% | BB% |
| .264 | .309 | .428 | .737 | 8 | 1 | 0 | 37.3% | 4.5% |
| ISO | wRC+ | SwStr% | GB% | LD% | FB% | Pull% | Cent% | Oppo% |
| .164 | 97 | 50.0% | 36.7% | 18.3% | 45.0% | 40.7% | 30.9% | 28.5% |
Signed in the 16th Round last year, he made his Rookie debut alongside Bryan Ramos. He focused more on his power tool than his hitting tool, resulting in 8 HRs, but came at the expense of a K% of 37.3%.
His large frame shows plenty of projection when it comes to power due to his natural strength and ability to get under the ball with force. There will need to be some work on his pitch recognition and approach, but he was just 17 when he played in the Arizona League so that will come with more exposure and time.
Defensively he moves well despite his large frame, but he may be more suited to a corner outfield role as his bat starts to play up. His strength projection allows for better throwing as he develops but currently sits as average.
One of the 2 exciting young players at the bottom of these ranks, they both have the potential in different ways to have big seasons in 2021.
Report by: Jake Tweedie, @MLBUKAnalysis1
White Sox Rankings Contributors:
Jake Tillinghast, @JTillinghast27
Danny Brackman, @d__brack
Jake Tweedie,@MLBUKAnalysis1
Drake Mann, @DrakeMann4
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