White Sox: 1 trade to make, 1 prospect to promote to widen lead in AL Central

White Sox prospect to promote: Jimmy Lambert already has big-league experience

When it comes to the top prospects for the White Sox, the players at the top of the list aren’t exactly considered big-league ready nor will they be rushed to the majors during this season. The debuts will most likely come in the form of seasoned minor leaguers with some experience at least at the Triple-A level. The team’s No.16 prospect Jimmy Lambert was recalled earlier this season for a spot start, and I believe he will be brought up again at some point this year.

The 26-year-old Lambert is projected as a long-term starter and made his MLB debut on May 31 against Cleveland. Lambert lasted just 3.2 innings as he allowed three earned runs on seven hits while striking out four and walking one.

He was sent back down to Triple-A Charlotte where he owns a 4.64 ERA, 1.172 WHIP, and an impressive 14.3 K/9 across 21.1 innings this season. MLB Prospectus says Lambert’s fastball and curveball, “feature some of the highest spin rates in the system.”

The White Sox starting rotation has been among the best in the majors this season so there won’t be a need for an improvement barring any setbacks or injuries. In that case, I think Chicago recalls a pitcher from their farm system to either stretch out an overused rotation and bullpen or to showcase a player like Lambert just before the trade deadline.