White Sox really are better, here's why

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Despite some setbacks, the White Sox are genuinely improved this year.  They currently sit at 29-30, tied for second with the Cleveland Indians in an exceedingly weak AL Central.  One reason the Sox are right at .500 is because the AL Central is exceedingly weak, but there are other genuine reasons for optimism.

A solid start

The White Sox infield is strong, at least offensively.  The left side of the Sox infield of Tim Anderson and Yoan Moncada each sports a WAR of 1.7.  While Tim Anderson is hitting three .330, his defensive numbers still drag down his value.  His defensive WAR is at -0.1.  Anderson is capable of the exceptional play, but lacks consistency.  Yoan Moncada has swung a good bat but his defense also grades out fairly well.  His defensive WAR is a solid 0.3.  Jose Abreu has driven in 50 runs from his slot at first base, while Yolmer Sanchez is a place holder at second, though I’m shocked his defensive WAR is 0.5.

Help wanted

Eloy Jimenez has had his moments in the Sox outfield, though he hasn’t caught fire yet.  Still, I’d rather watch him than Nicky Delmonico.  Leury Garcia is a genuinely useful player.  He’s like a poor man’s Ben Zobrist with less bat and more speed.  I much prefer him to Adam Engel in center field.  The Sox could still use more outfield help.

Here's a surprise

James McCann has been a revelation behind the plate for the Sox.  I don’t think anyone envisioned him as .338 hitter at this point in the season.  But in fairness, I don’t think many thought Welington Castillo would be hitting ,176 either.

And a disappointment

Yonder Alfonso is hitting a cool, no, make that frigid .187.  His WAR is -0.3.  The other Manny Machado lure, Jon Jay, hasn’t played yet this season but still has a better WAR than Alonso. 

A two man staff won't work

While the White Sox are nearly a .500 team they have a run differential of -43.  That’s in large part because of some horrific pitching.  On the plus side Lucas Giolito and closer, Alex Colome have been lights out.  Giolito has seemingly found himself and is 8-1 with an ERA of 2.54.  His peripheral stats indicate his success isn’t a fluke.

The Sox trade of Omar Narvaez for Alex Colome has worked out well.  Alex is 12 for 12 in save opportunities.  His WHIP is a microscopic 0.592.  After Giolito and Colome Sox pitching gets dicey.

Ivan Nova and Reynaldo Lopez have ERAs of 6.24 and 6.20 respectively.  Setup guy, Kelvin Herrera has also been horrific.  Herrera’s ERA is at 7.16 and his WAR is at -0.6.  That’s quite an accomplishment in 22 innings.

Why?

While the Sox are improved, I’m still frustrated that the Sox didn’t do more in the offseason.