Chicago White Sox shoot into top-10 in ESPN’s MLB power rankings

Imagn Images

Chicago White Sox shoot into top-10 in ESPN’s MLB power rankings

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Robin Adams | Last updated Jun 18, 2026 1:06 PM ET

The last two games may not have gone their way, but the Chicago White Sox are still in first place in the American League Central Division. At 38-34, Chicago is a vastly improved team than the product the put on the field over the last few years.

What has been most surprising as of late is that the White Sox have continued winning despite the injury absence of Munetaka Murakami. When he went down with a strained hamstring, many were worried that Chicago would not be able to keep up in the division.

Not only have they been able to keep up, they are now in first place.

The Chicago White Sox land the eighth spot in ESPN’s top-10 rankings

Jun 14, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth (10) and shortstop Colson Montgomery (12) celebrate their win against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

When the season began, Chicago was consistently ranked at or near the bottom of ESPN’s power rankings. This was understandable, of course, given that they lost over 100 games in each of the past three seasons. Additionally, they opened 2026 by being swept.

But now, thanks to their wins over the two best teams in the National League, the White Sox have been ranked eighth:

“The White Sox completed a solid week during a tough stretch of their schedule. First, they took two of two from the Braves, then won their three-game series against the Dodgers thanks to a rally in the rubber game Sunday.

“Chicago scored six runs in the sixth to erase a 1-0 deficit behind three home runs in the inning. It has been their trademark: The White Sox are among the league leaders in slugging and right behind the Yankees in home runs. Even while missing Munetaka Murakami because of injury, their power hasn’t tanked.”

In order to maintain this top-ten ranking, Chicago is going to have to bounce back from what is currently a disappointing series in New York. If they can, they should be able to get to Murakami’s return in a good position to keep the good times rolling.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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