When Munetaka Murakami came to MLB from Japan after the Chicago White Sox signed him, it was uncertain how he would perform. The infielder, however, has quickly made a name for himself in Chicago, leading the team with 20 home runs, 41 RBIs, and a .378 on-base percentage. 

There’s no sugarcoating that the infielder’s offensive production has been vital for the White Sox in their push for the playoffs this season. Murakami’s recent hamstring injury, though, put that much-needed offensive production on hold. His injury isn’t season-ending, but it must serve as a trade-deadline wake-up call for the White Sox.

Murakami Injury Exposes White Sox Offensive Concerns

Hamstring injuries, specifically, are tricky because they tend to degrade a player’s speed and hitting stride, so Murakami may not have an explosive bat when he returns. Expectations for him to continue leading the team in several offensive categories when he gets back would be unrealistic. Postseason-worthy teams are built with ample depth to withstand injuries.

With Murakami expected to miss approximately 4-6 weeks, the White Sox are now asking themselves who can fill the void. Chicago does have some options already, including third baseman Miguel Vargas, shortstop Colson Montgomery, and designated hitter Andrew Benintendi. The reality, though, is that the team shouldn’t shy away from getting another hitter who can bring consistent offense to the roster.

Trade Deadline Just Became a Turning Point for Chicago

With the August 3rd trade deadline approaching, this is where the front office needs to take a serious look at which hitters they can get a steal for. The White Sox can be hopeful that their current roster can generate enough offense, but with the team sitting in second place in the AL Central standings as of June 3rd at 32-29, this is no time to be wishing on stars. If the White Sox are serious about making a postseason push, this is the time for action.

The first player that the White Sox can target is Red Sox left fielder Jarren Duran. He’s not the biggest name that could be on the trading block this season, but he would fit well with the White Sox with his ability to consistently hit for extra bases. Of the 48 hits Duran has so far this season, nine of those are doubles, and he also has two triples.

If Chicago wants to go all-out before the trade deadline and prove how serious they are about making the postseason now, Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout should be on their radar. Trading for a superstar is generally ill-advised because it would mean sending away top prospects and draft picks, affecting the long-term future of a team. 

Trout, however, still possesses valuable offensive production, leading the Angels with a .411 OBP, 14 home runs, while also boasting 31 RBIs and 52 hits. Anaheim currently sits in last place in the AL West, so they shouldn’t be expecting to make a push for October. Another year of missing the postseason for Trout could signal that a move might be necessary.

Regardless of which hitters the White Sox talk to before the trade deadline, it’s clear what they need to do. The wake-up call has been delivered, and Chicago can’t stand by and wait for Murakami to heal. At 32-29, Chicago still has realistic hopes of making the postseason, and a cold stretch without a replacement for Murakami will spell trouble.