White Sox: 3 prospects Chicago would have to sell in any Juan Soto trade
By Mark Powell
As much as the White Sox may want to trade for Juan Soto, they have to take their future into account. The Nationals want a lot back in return.
Washington is reportedly looking for a Herschel Walker-like return from any potential Soto suitor, and it’s tough to blame them. Soto is just 23 years old and has three years left on his deal. Yes, those years are arbitration-eligible, but theoretically it’s far cheaper than his market value.
Any team that acquires Soto will be doing so with the understanding that a record-breaking contract is around the corner. The White Sox have been mentioned by some experts as an ideal fit. This includes Jim Bowden of The Athletic.
The only question is whether a trade between Chicago and Washington is more likely to happen now, with the White Sox struggling to stay above the .500 mark, or in the offseason.
Regardless of when a move takes place, you can expect the White Sox to be involved in any conversation for Soto. He’d be an immediate upgrade in Chicago, just as he would be for any team. Here’s what it would take to trade for him, at minimum:
Juan Soto rumors: White Sox could trade Andrew Vaughn
Vaughn was in the All-Star conversation this season. The former first-round pick is slashing .301/.350/.470, showing off some moderate power with 10 home runs in 72 games.
Vaughn is good jumping off point in any trade for Juan Soto. He’s the kind of player who can contribute now while the Nationals are rebuilding, but also be around long enough to enjoy their next competitive window.
A former first-round pick himself, Vaughn was deemed pro-ready from the jump. It hasn’t always been smooth and steady, but the first baseman/DH has received Ryan Zimmerman comps, making it all the more perfect that he ends up in D.C., playing in Zim’s old stomping grounds.