Three potential offseason targets for the Chicago White Sox

Between a rookie general manager and multiple years of disappointing performance on the field, there is going to be a lot of pressure facing the Chicago White Sox this offseason to make moves that produce results.

Tony Kemp, LF/2B, Oakland A's

Leadership in the clubhouse originates at the top and while setting the tone is ultimately going to fall on the manager and coaching staff there's value in having a veteran player who can help. Since arriving in Oakland prior to the 2020 season, Kemp has served in that role for the A's and he's been beloved by most players in the clubhouse. For a club with a known culture problem, bringing in someone like Kemp would be a good first step. 

Versatile enough to play a corner outfield spot or second base, Kemp would give the White Sox options in the lineup. He isn't a prolific hitter by any means, with a career line of .239/.326/.354 in just over 2,100 plate appearances, but the intangibles are valuable. Moreover, coming off a season in which he's earning $3.725M any deal he signs isn't going to break the bank. 

Victor Caratini, C, Milwaukee Brewers

Yasmani Grandal will reach free agency but unless he's willing to take a steep discount a return to the White Sox feels unlikely. In all likelihood, Chicago intends to move forward with Korey Lee behind the dish until Edgar Quero is ready to take over. The presence of the pair shouldn't preclude the team from adding a veteran to share time. Bringing in someone with experience is only going to help the two young catchers learn to manage a game and work with the pitching staff. 

Caratini fits the mold of what Chicago could need -- and he's got experience in the city already, having spent four years with the Cubs. He's hit .249/.328/.373 in part-time duty for the Brewers this year. A switch-hitter, Caratini just turned 30 in August. 

Clay Holmes, RP, New York Yankees

Reports suggest the White Sox intend to keep Michael Kopech in the rotation and Garrett Crochet would prefer to start. Both arms are likely better suited for the bullpen long-term but if Chicago is going to progress with the pair stretched out they will need someone to step in and help close out games. Tommy John surgery eliminated any chance of Liam Hendriks returning to the role again next year. 

With the Yankees having a disastrous 2023, they'll be looking to retool this offseason and that could put Holmes on the trade block. The best time to move him for a peak return likely would have been this past trade deadline, but that doesn't mean the Yankees won't consider moving him now. The potential return for the White Sox likely shouldn't be too high if New York is motivated to make a deal.