White Sox Division Rival Reportedly Expressing Interest In Tommy Pham
It’s no secret the White Sox are looking to trade Tommy Pham. The 11-year MLB veteran is putting together a solid season at the plate, slashing .276/.349/.388 with 3 home runs, 13 RBIs, and an OPS+ of 111. As the calendar continues to flip closer to the July 30th deadline, a division rival has reportedly expressed interest in acquiring Pham as a rental.
According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Royals are one of multiple teams who have inquired about the 36-year-old outfielder.
Pham is only owed $3 million this season, which is a reasonable contract for the Royals to bring on. They currently boast one of the worst outfields in baseball, despite their 42-34 record. Their current group of Darion Blanco, Garrett Hampson, Kyle Isbel, MJ Melendez, Hunter Renfroe, and Nelson Velázquez have combined for a cumulative slash line of .209/.268/.343. That ranks last in the MLB in on-base percentage and, and 28th in slugging percentage.
Pham brings with him some versatility and playoff experience after helping the Arizona Diamondbacks capture the NL Pennant last season. The White Sox have deployed him in all three outfield positions this season, which includes 28 games in center field while Luis Robert Jr. was on the IL. He is also drawing walks at a nearly 10% clip.
Pham went unsigned through much of the offseason until agreeing to a deal with the White Sox. He reportedly had other offers on the table but picked the White Sox for tax purposes. A trade would be the best outcome for both parties, as the White Sox will be able to bring in a minor league piece that could help them in the future while Pham can play for a contender.
Inter-division trades are rare but the White Sox have shown they have been willing to do them in the past. In 2021 they added Ceasar Hernandez in a trade with the Cleveland Guardians. The Royals could certainly use the boost as they continue their push for the playoffs. Melendez is batting .180. Isbel is hitting just .225 and Renfroe suffered a foot injury in June. The Royals would likely not have to give up a significant prospect while, Pham would only be a short-term rental, which is why both teams would be more willing to make a deal.