The Chicago White Sox have been enduring a tough season, but the team’s local broadcast crew remains optimistic. Before a Thursday night game against the Boston Red Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field, NBC Sports Chicago’s John Schriffen expressed confidence that the White Sox would break their 13-game losing streak. Schriffen remarked on air, “I feel good. Tonight is the night the losing streak ends. We’ve got new blood in the lineup. New guys who are looking for their first major league hit and Paul DeJong with the wind blowing out, maybe he adds to his total tonight.”
Despite this optimism, the Red Sox dominated the game, securing a 14-2 victory, which extended Chicago’s losing streak to 14 games—a new franchise record surpassing the previous one set in 1924. Yet, Schriffen’s broadcast partner Steve Stone maintained a hopeful outlook. Stone predicted, “You can put that 14 up there because it’s gonna stay there because Garrett Crochett wins tomorrow. That’s the way this series goes. Red Sox win the first one. White Sox win the second one, then they’ll worry about three and four when they get there. But that’s the guy that’s gonna end it tomorrow. It’ll stay at 14.”
Stone’s bold prediction is something White Sox fans hope will come true as they anticipate Friday’s matchup. The second game of the four-game series between Boston and Chicago is scheduled to start at 8:10 p.m. ET on NESN.
Potential Trade Candidates: Luis Robert Jr.
The White Sox, currently the worst team in baseball, are likely to trade some of their veteran players as the season progresses. MLB Network’s Jon Heyman has reported that the team is beginning to receive inquiries about outfielder Luis Robert Jr., a 2023 All-Star. There should be significant interest in Robert Jr., with these four teams particularly standing out as potential suitors.
**Philadelphia Phillies**
For the Phillies, acquiring Robert Jr. would be an example of the strong getting stronger. The Phillies already have a powerful lineup but are lacking in center field, where Johan Rojas is underperforming with a .234 batting average and a .572 OPS. Additionally, right fielder Nick Castellanos is having a subpar season. Adding Robert Jr. could solidify the Phillies’ dominance in the National League.
Atlanta Braves
The Braves have a major gap to fill after losing Ronald Acuna Jr. for the season. Their current outfield depth is unimpressive, with Michael Harris II struggling and Jarred Kelenic and Adam Duvall not being significant contributors. To maintain their competitive edge in the postseason, the Braves need a power hitter, and Robert Jr., who hit 38 home runs in 2023, could help fill Acuna Jr.’s void.
Seattle Mariners
Leading the American League West, the Mariners are a dark horse contender for the pennant. Their pitching staff is strong, and they have a star in center fielder Julio Rodriguez. However, their corner outfielders, Luke Raley and Mitch Haniger, are not providing enough support. Adding another star player like Robert Jr. could boost their chances of making their first-ever World Series appearance.
Pittsburgh Pirates
Although the Pirates are not typically known for making big moves, acquiring Robert Jr. could be a transformative decision. Robert Jr. would instantly become their best position player and is under team control through 2027 at a reasonable $63 million. This makes him an affordable yet impactful addition. The Pirates have a promising pitching staff with the emergence of Paul Skenes and Jared Jones alongside 2023 All-Star Mitch Keller. They now need to strengthen their lineup to take full advantage of their playoff window.
In summary, despite the White Sox’s current struggles and the possibility of trading key players like Luis Robert Jr., the optimism from their broadcast team and the strategic interest from other teams in Robert Jr. provide a glimmer of hope and potential for a turnaround.
