Chicago White Sox predicted to land 1x All-Star ahead of MLB trade deadline

The Chicago White Sox finished the 2024 MLB season 41-121. It was the worst season in Major League history, and a true rock bottom for one of baseball’s oldest franchises. Now, in 2026, they are 41-37 and, to the surprise of just about everyone, in first place of the American League Central Division.

Indeed, it certainly seems that, as the season approaches its halfway point, the White Sox are serious contenders for a spot in the postseason. That being said, they are far from a perfect team and will need to make some improvements in order to seriously make some noise.

The area with the most obvious room for improvement is their starting pitching.

The Chicago White Sox are predicted to trade for Seth Lugo

Chicago White Sox, Seth Lugo — Jun 10, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Seth Lugo (67) delivers a pitch against the Texas Rangers during the first inning at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images

For years, the White Sox have been sellers at the deadline. They have traded away several former players for prospects and young talent, some of whom are currently contributing to their rebirth this season.

Now, though, Chicago needs to take on the role of buyers, and Bleacher Report predicts that Seth Lugo will be a starting pitcher they attain ahead of the trade deadline:

“It’s a nice season the White Sox are having, but their starting rotation is threatening to undo it. It ranks dead-last in innings for the season, and it has a 6.71 ERA in June. A horse like Lugo is therefore a perfect target on paper.

“Lugo is signed through 2027 with a club option for 2028, which is ideal for a White Sox club that is still early in its contention cycle. Even if it means upgrading an AL Central rival’s farm, he’s worth a lesser bat like Colby Shelton (No. 9) or Javier Mogollon (No. 10).”

So far in 2026, Lugo is just 3-4 despite having a respectable 3.60 ERA. Two years ago, in 2024, he finished second in AL Cy Young voting and was an All-Star when he went 16-9 with a 3.00 ERA. Lugo also won a Gold Glove that year.

While he may not be an ace, the White Sox do not necessarily need one. They need stability, and Lugo can provide that.

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