Chicago White Sox may contend in AL Central

The Chicago White Sox were expected to use the 2026 season as another step in their rebuilding process.

While the White Sox had improved the talent level on the major league roster, they were not expected to contend for a playoff spot. The AL Central had been projected as a three-team battle between the Guardians, Royals and Tigers. A fourth-place finish in the division could have been considered a victory.

Someone forgot to mention that to the White Sox. After a 6-5 victory over the Royals on Wednesday, the White Sox hold a 21-21 record and are just 1.5 games behind Cleveland for the division lead. This marks the first time that the White Sox have been at .500 since March 31, 2025, when they were 2-2.

Chicago White Sox on impressive run at the quarter point of the season

Wednesday's victory marked the continuation of an impressive hot streak for the White Sox. They have won four consecutive games and 14 out of their last 21 games. The White Sox have won six out of their last eight series and have a chance to hold a winning record for the first time since Opening Day in 2025.

Contributions have come from throughout the roster. First baseman Munetaka Murakami has given the White Sox a dangerous power hitter in the middle of the lineup. Shortstop Colson Montgomery is showing that his impressive rookie season was not a fluke. Infielders Chase Meidroth and Miguel Vargas have taken the next step and have solidified their place as part of the White Sox's future.

The White Sox pitching has impressed as well. Davis Martin has been one of the biggest surprises in the early going, posting a 1.62 ERA and a 1.000 WHiP over his 50 innings and is tied for third among major league pitchers with 1.9 fWAR. Reclamation projects Jordan Hicks and Erick Fedde have been solid additions to the pitching staff. 

The White Sox have plenty of talent on the cusp of reaching the majors, with outfielder Braden Mongomery and pitchers Hagen Smith and Tanner McDougal expected to debut this season. Prospects Noah Schultz and Sam Antonacci have already started to establish themselves in the majors. If those players can hit the ground running, the White Sox may find themselves contending throughout the season.