(Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
The American League Central steps into the batter’s box to face our 2021 win total evaluation. Using Vegas Insider’s MLB win totals, we’re going division by division, predicting the over or under for all 30 teams. With our AL East predictions published, it’s now time to transition to the Central.
We’ll start with the club fitted for the most wins:
Chicago White Sox
Over/Under 91.5 wins
Prediction: Over
The White Sox are soaring. After reaching the postseason for the first time since 2008, the expectation is for them to frequent October baseball for the next decade.
They employ many of the game’s great young talents, including Yoan Moncada, Luis Robert, and Eloy Jimenez. First baseman Jose Abreu won the 2020 AL MVP, shortstop Tim Anderson earned a Silver Slugger award, and starting pitcher Lucas Giolito tallied Cy Young votes for a second straight year.
What did they have in store for the offseason? They added Lance Lynn, who led MLB in innings pitched last season, and Liam Hendricks, who MLB Network ranked as the top reliever in baseball.
Chicago will come at opponents from all angles in 2021, just as they did in 2020. Last year, the White Sox ranked in the top 10 in bullpen ERA and starters ERA. Their offense finished in the top-five in runs scored and home runs.
Lynn and Hendricks will further improve them from the mound, as will a healthy Michael Kopech. Offensively, the Sox gain an experienced leadoff man in Adam Eaton. They may also break camp with top prospect Andrew Vaughn as their primary DH.
There’s nary a weakness throughout the White Sox roster. Inexperience is all that could keep them from consistently dominating the upcoming campaign. If the veterans can conduct business as usual, the team will win over 91 games.