Chicago White Sox linked to trade for slugger with elite trait

The Chicago White Sox have hit a bit of a rough patch over the last week, as they have lost fix of their last six games heading into a pivotal three-game series with the Cleveland Guardians that begins on Monday evening.

A litany of issues have plagued the White Sox during this stretch. Their starting rotation has been problematic, and their lack of offensive depth is beginning to become an issue.

Yes, Chicago is still without Munetaka Murakami, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury, but even with Murakami healthy, it’s clear that its lineup is not entirely up to snuff. The White Sox are hitting just .237 as a team, and their .319 OBP could stand to improve.

Chicago could look to make some additions between now and the MLB trade deadline, and finding a strong contact hitter might be near the top of their to-do list.

On that note, Michael DeRosa of Southside Showdown has pitched a very intriguing trade target for the White Sox: San Francisco Giants outfielder Jung Hoo Lee.

Chicago White Sox linked to trade for Jung Hoo Lee

Lee has been one of the best average hitters in baseball this season, slashing .327/.359/.456 with four home runs, 18 doubles and 26 RBI. He has struck out just 26 times, which should definitely be appealing for a Chicago squad that ranks near the bottom of baseball in punchouts.

“Lee would have the potential to be an excellent addition to the White Sox’s roster as they continue their playoff push. While he has an opt-out in his contract following the 2027 season, they’d get at least one other year of control on Lee, which adds to his appeal,” DeRosa wrote.

The 27-year-old came over to the majors from Korea in 2024 and has slashed .282/.333/.409 since arriving. The 2026 campaign has definitely represented a breakout year for Lee, who was a fantastic .340 hitter in the KBO.

The one caveat with Lee is that he is an awful defender. He posted a minus-18 DRS and minus-5 OAA last season, and this year, he has registered a minus-5 DRS and minus-2 OAA. But the White Sox could really use his bat, so they may be willing to look past that.

Of course, cost matters, so Chicago would have to see exactly how much the Giants would be asking in return for Lee, but if San Francisco is willing to move the lefty slugger, the White Sox should at least listen pretty intently.

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