Will the White Sox contend in 2023?

After a disappointing 2022 season, the Chicago White Sox have made some strong moves this offseason.

This, coupled with a relatively weak AL Central that may still be open for one team to take over, could allow the White Sox to become playoff contenders.

Here are a couple of reasons why the White Sox could be better than people think in 2023.

off season strong

It all started with the signing of Mike Clevinger.

While Clevinger has struggled with a variety of injuries in recent years, he was one of the best arms in the league from 2018-20.

Yesterday, Mike Clevinger made his emotional return to the mound after a 2-year absence from Tommy John surgery. pic.twitter.com/qXIsfSIhJx

-MLB (@MLB) May 5, 2022

He may be able to return to fitness in 2023, more than a season after having Tommy John surgery.

If he can have another breakout season, it would be a huge boost for the team.

Another signing the White Sox did was outfielder Andrew Benintendi.

Benintendi had a strong season in 2022, posting a .304 batting average.

He also has postseason experience, something that would be a good addition to the White Sox.

While neither of these moves was necessarily the marquee, each should help build the current roster.

talented players

It’s also important to realize the talent on this list.

They have two superstars between Tim Anderson and Luis Robert.

Each of them can lead a team and have the potential to compete for American League MVP.

Add contributing bats like Eloy Jimenez, Yoan Moncada and Yasmani Grandal and there’s a lot of potential within your lineup.

Luis Robert just hit a baseball OUTSIDE Fenway Park 😳 @white sock pic.twitter.com/6wnJYMESm2

– B/R output (@BRWalkoff) May 7, 2022

From a pitching standpoint, they have one of the best starters in baseball in Dylan Cease.

Michael Kopech took a big step forward last season and is about to become an ace.

Of all the teams in the AL Central, it can be argued that they have the most talent of any team.

Now, it’s just a matter of putting it all together under new coach Pedro Grifl.