White Sox Trade for Former All Star Mike Soroka

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In a blockbuster trade, the Chicago White Sox have acquired former All-Star pitcher Michael Soroka and five other players from the Atlanta Braves. In the most significant trade in the 2024 off-season, the Chicago White Sox sent veteran reliever Aaron Bummer to the Atlanta Braves in exchange for former all-star Mike Soroka and five other players. Following a disappointing 2023 season, the White Sox have shown which way the organization is headed early in the off-season. Before the trade, the White Sox saw the departures of two key veterans, Tim Anderson, and Liam Hendriks; now, with the trade of Aaron Bummer, the White Sox are embarking on what seems to be a complete rebuild.

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After a disappointing finish to the 2023 season, the Braves aim to solidify their bullpen going into the 2024 season. Despite posting an underwhelming 6.79 ERA in 2023, Aaron Bummer's metrics show he could be a valuable addition to the Braves' bullpen. His 3.58 FIP indicates that his high ERA was primarily due to poor defensive support from the Chicago White Sox. Bummer's ability to get ground balls, with a ground ball rate of 60.1%, makes him vulnerable to a poor infield defense. On top of the fact that Bummer has an exceptional ground ball rate, he also strikes guys out; Bummer struck out 78 in 58 1/3 innings in 2023, resulting in a  12.03 K/9 (29.2 strikeout percentage).

Unlike the White Sox, the Braves' above-average fielding percentage and ability to turn double plays provide a much more favorable environment for Bummer's success. Furthermore, when playing behind an average White Sox infield, Bummer was dominant, posting an ERA of  2.36 in 2022, a 3.51 in 2021, and 2.13 in 2019. 

For the White Sox, trading Bummer shows the organization's intention to rebuild its roster with a focus on young players. Soroka, a former all-star, is finally back after three Achilles surgeries, missing two seasons. Shuster, who recently made his MLB debut, holds the potential to become a critical contributor to the White Sox's future rotation. Furthermore, Shewmake, who had a chance at becoming the Brave's starting shortstop in 2022, has some big-league experience. Lopez provides additional depth and flexibility to the infield; Gowens brings promise to the organization's minor league system.

While the White Sox are investing in their future, the Braves are looking to strengthen their dominant team, as they had the most wins in the 2023 season. Bummer, a veteran lefty arm has a career ERA of 3.84 and over 300 strikeouts, bringing valuable experience and depth to the Braves' bullpen. His addition could prove crucial as the Braves navigate the competitive National League and bring home the World Series trophy in 2024.