Chicago White Sox: surprising player gets highlighted in latest MLB power rankings

Every year, there are great stories that stand out in Major League Baseball. None may be better in 2026, though, than the Chicago White Sox. After three seasons of 100+ losses, they are currently 65-58 and have a 5.5-game lead for first place in the American League Central Division.

Indeed, there have been many reasons for this team’s turnaround. New faces have brought a fresh perspective to the game, as well as some intense home run power.

However, the contributions of others that have persevered through the past three seasons should not be overlooked. Among those is Andrew Benintendi, who was long-believed to have one of the worst contracts in baseball.

He has not been too bad this year, though, as he is hitting .248/.311/.423 with 12 home runs and 60 RBI. While his home run total is not on par with what it has been, his 60 RBI have already matched his total from last season.

Andrew Benintendi gets praised as the Chicago White Sox land 8th in latest MLB power rankings

Chicago White Sox, Andrew Benintendi — May 22, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Chicago White Sox designated hitter Andrew Benintendi (23) hits a two-run double against the San Francisco Giants during the fourth inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-Imagn Images

On Monday, MLB.com released their weekly power rankings. The White Sox came in slotted eighth, but with a special shoutout to Benintendi:

“It really, seriously, honestly, may be happening on the South Side. Their division lead is now 5 1/2 games after a sweep of the Tigers this weekend, the highest it has been since they won the division back in 2021. You know who has been nice for them this year? Andrew Benintendi. The player once considered to have one of the worst contracts in baseball is slashing .302/.362/.488 with seven RBIs in his past 15 games.”

Indeed, Benintendi is not going to get the same level of attention as Chicago’s star sluggers. That being said, if they are to have any hope of making a deep run in the postseason, they will be relying on Benintendi and other role players like him to elevate their performances.

Over the last 15 games, he has proven that he is capable of doing so. Hopefully it continues for the rest of the year and into October.

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