Photo: Rick Osentoski/USA TODAY Sports

White Sox Add Jared Walsh in Search for Offensive Spark; Andrew Vaughn's Future Uncertain

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net | By Besnik Zekiri | Last updated 4/30/24

The Chicago White Sox' loss to the Minnesota Twins on Monday ended their three-game winning streak, highlighting ongoing offensive struggles. Despite a power surge on Friday and Saturday, they rank last in the league in runs scored. Seeking improvement, they recently added outfielder Tommy Pham.

In a new development, the White Sox agreed to a minor-league deal with first baseman Jared Walsh on Tuesday. This move follows Walsh's designation for assignment by the Texas Rangers. The 2021 All-Star recorded a .637 OPS with a homer and seven RBIs in 53 at-bats filling in for injured first baseman Nathaniel Lowe.

White Sox have signed 1B Jared Walsh to minor league deal. He will report to Arizona before being assigned to Charlotte, per the team.
— Scott Merkin (@scottmerkin) April 30, 2024

Following his breakout 2021 campaign with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, Walsh has failed to get back on track after undergoing thoracic outlet surgery in 2022. After posting nearly a 40% strikeout rate in 2023, the Angels cut him.

Walsh's addition could bolster the White Sox' plate production, particularly at first base. Current first baseman Andrew Vaughn has yet to homer in 2024 and has an OPS+ of 40, well below the league average.

What's On Tap Next?

The White Sox need run production and will continue to search for any marginal improvements on the waiver wire. Luis Robert Jr. should return in late May, and Yoan Moncada could return after the All-Star break. Jared Walsh's best days are likely behind him, but his meager production offers an improvement.

The clock is running out of time on Andrew Vaughn's career on the South Side. Since being drafted third overall in 2019, the underwhelming first baseman is one of the worst qualified hitters in the Majors.

It's unlikely that Chris Getz will cut Vaughn loose during the season, but should his performance continue on this path, the White Sox will have a new first baseman in 2025.

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

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