Seattle Mariners: 3 More Suitors for James Paxton

CHICAGO WHITE SOX

The White Sox are reportedly showing interest in Bryce Harper, indicating that they’re ready to make a push into contention with their young core in 2019. If that’s the case, this could be the team that jumps out of nowhere to snag James Paxton. After recently trading aces Chris Sale and José Quintana, going after a Paxton trade seems a bit counterproductive, but with an insanely deep farm system, it’s a move they can afford to make.

Firstly, let’s remember to stay realistic: Eloy Jiménez will not be in this deal. Neither will Michael Kopech, in all likelihood. Dylan Cease is a bit more ideal, but that might even be a stretch at this point. That’s how good this system is. One of those three would surely be Seattle’s asking price, at least at the start. In the end, I see a deal being headlined by two of Chicago’s more overlooked top prospects: Dane Dunning and Zack Collins.

Collins has been mediocre in terms of actually putting bat on ball, only posting a .234 average in 2018, but his ability to get on base and control the zone should not be passed over. In 531 plate appearances, walked 19% of the time while getting on base at a .382 clip. It’s equally impressive as it is concerning. He also struckout 29.8% of the time, something he’s struggled with throughout his professional career. Collins also hasn’t been the most impressive defensive catcher, though he provides an above-average arm able to manage and shut down an opposing team’s running game.

Like Collins, Dunning is on the cusp of making his MLB debut. The 23-year-old righty has started 41 games over the last two years in three different levels of the White Sox’s organization. Dunning, acquired in the Adam Eaton deal with the Nationals, had his season abruptly ended this June after being diagnosed with a sprained right elbow. That should be a cause for concern, but Dunning is a special talent, and if the Mariners are given the opportunity to grab him, they should take it.

Personally speaking, if I could have one player from the White Sox, it would be last year’s fourth overall pick Nick Madrigal. Though that’s likely an unrealistic ask in return for Paxton, Madrigal was such a defensive and offensive stud for Oregon State and continued on that course in 43 games within the White Sox’s system.

Depending on which of their players the White Sox are willing to deal, they could line up as one of the more attractive trade partners for Paxton.