OPINION: Chicago White Sox Should Trade for Nick Madrigal from Cubs

The Chicago White Sox are in need of a second baseman, and the Chicago Cubs no longer have a need for Nick Madrigal. It might make sense for the White Sox to bring back Madrigal to the South Side of the city, Jack Vita writes.

The Chicago White Sox still appear to be in need of a second baseman for the 2023 season.

The White Sox traded former top prospect Nick Madrigal midway through the 2021 season to the Chicago Cubs in exchange for Craig Kimbrel, in their championship pursuit.

Last season, veteran Josh Harrison served as a stopgap. Harrison recently signed a contract to play for the Philadelphia Phillies.

The White Sox missed out on signing Tommy La Stella, who was designated for assignment by the San Francisco Giants last month. The club has engaged in conversations with their division rival, the Kansas City Royals, about acquiring infielder Nicky Lopez.

Meanwhile, the solution could be hiding in plain sight.

On the north side of the city, the Chicago Cubs had a rather active offseason, signing free agent position players Dansby Swanson, Trey Mancini, Eric Hosmer, Cody Bellinger and Tucker Barnhart. Swanson will take over at shortstop, moving Nico Hoerner to second base. Mancini should occupy the designated hitter spot, while contributing at first base and in the corner outfield. Unless the Cubs have plans for Madrigal to play third base, the former no. 4 overall pick of the 2018 MLB Draft should be available via trade.

Given that the Cubs have now committed long-term to Swanson, and have Hoerner under club control for the next three seasons, through 2025, Madrigal no longer carries as much value to the club as he once did. Without a position on the Cubs, he could be a great add for another team that needs a second baseman.

The White Sox had long terms plan for Madrigal at the position once upon a time. Bringing him back via trade would require the front office to swallow its pride to a certain degree, but it could very well be worth it.

Madrigal is coming off a forgettable, injury-riddled 2022 where he slashed just .249/.305/.588 with zero home runs and seven RBI in 59 games.

However, after coming back from the Injured List in early August, Madrigal put together a very impressive four-week stretch in which he slashed .317/.385/.738.

Madrigal has played just 142 games in his young career, batting .289. He's 25 years-old and is under club control for the next four seasons, through 2026. 

Madrigal still needs to show that he can stay on the field, but a reunion with the White Sox could be a matchmade in heaven for a club in need of a second baseman, and a second baseman in need of playing time.

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