Chicago White Sox Encountered with Two Potential Trade Proposals Involving Andrew Benintendi
As the 2025 MLB trade deadline approaches, the Chicago White Sox's outfielder, Andrew Benintendi, has caught the attention of several teams in need of outfield reinforcements. Notably, the Atlanta Braves and the Philadelphia Phillies have emerged as potential suitors, each seeking a left field upgrade.
The Braves, with their left fielders struggling to maintain a respectable OPS (On-Base Plus Slugging) this season, find Benintendi's left-handed bat, offering league-average offensive value, an appealing target. On the other hand, the Phillies, battling the New York Mets in the NL East, are in search of a left-handed bat to bolster their lineup and improve their chances in the division race.
However, Benintendi's significant contract, worth over $15 million per season, poses a challenge. With $16.5 million remaining for the remainder of the 2025 season, followed by $16.5 million in 2026 and $14.5 million in 2027, the White Sox are reportedly willing to subsidize part of Benintendi’s contract to facilitate a trade.
One trade proposal suggests the Phillies receive Benintendi and reliever Steven Wilson in exchange for prospect Michael Mercado. Wilson, with a 1.73 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, and 8.7 K/9 in 27 appearances this season, is under team control through 2027 at an affordable rate, making him a hot commodity.
Meanwhile, the San Diego Padres, who have been relying on Gavin Sheets in left field, could benefit from such a trade. The Padres, who recently released Jason Heyward, are in need of an answer in left field.
The White Sox's willingness to include cash in a deal to offset the salary burden for the acquiring team may make Benintendi more attractive to teams like the Braves, who are cautious about spending this year.
In summary, the combination of Benintendi's contract and his offensive and defensive abilities make him an intriguing trade prospect for teams in need of outfield help. The White Sox's willingness to subsidize part of Benintendi’s contract could pave the way for a potential trade, provided the acquiring team is willing to take on the remaining salary.
Breaking news: The White Sox's outfielder, Andrew Benintendi, is attracting several teams, such as the Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies, who are in search of left field upgrades. The Braves, with a struggling left field offensive performance this season, find Benintendi's league-average left-handed bat appealing. Meanwhile, the Phillies, seeking a left-handed bat for their lineup, consider Benintendi as an option to improve their chances in the division race. However, Benintendi's significant contract poses a challenge, leading the White Sox to potentially subsidize part of it to facilitate a trade. The Padres, who are in need of an answer in left field after releasing Jason Heyward, could also benefit from such a trade.
