Nobody expected the Chicago White Sox to be in the postseason race, let alone leading the division, in the final week of July, but here they are.
The White Sox have a two-game lead in the American League Central and are more than just a feel-good story at this point. They have the pieces to go on a run in a relatively weak American League, but they could still use some rotation help. With the New York Mets' fire sale seemingly coming, Clay Holmes should be a target for the White Sox.
After a few strong seasons in the New York Yankees bullpen, Holmes signed to be a starter in Queens. He signed a three-year, $38 million deal with the Mets and has a $12 million player option next season. After posting a 3.53 ERA in his first season as a starter and a 2.39 ERA through nine starts this year, it would not be crazy to think he will decline his option and head into free agency.
The Mets could look to deal him as a rental as he returns from his fractured fibula. Had it not been for a freak injury when he took a combacker off the leg, Holmes could have been one of the most sought-after arms at this year's deadline. He is already on the rehab trail and has made one start in Triple-A.
Sean Burke and Davis Martin lead the White Sox rotation. Anthony Kay, Erick Fedde and Noah Schultz have gotten the job done, but at this point, starting any of them in a postseason series seems less than ideal. Holmes could slot in near the top of the rotation and give the White Sox a trio they feel comfortable starting in a postseason series.
Holmes gets a ton of ground balls and would pair well with the White Sox infield. The White Sox infield ranks seventh in fielding run value. Meanwhile, the Mets are near the bottom of the league.