Inbox: When will Moncada make jump to MLB?
Beat reporter Scott Merkin answers fans' questions
CHICAGO -- The second half to the 2017 season for the White Sox began with Jose Quintana's trade to the Cubs on Thursday, which answers at least one Inbox inquiry. Let's look at a few more.
Will Yoan Moncada come up before July 31?
-- Jimmy, Miami, @jimmyleiderman
I would say yes. It wouldn't surprise me to see Moncada, the top White Sox prospect, up at some point around the home and home series with the Cubs from July 24-27. He certainly has shown a high level and wide array of skills consistently at Triple-A Charlotte and is ready for the next challenge.
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Would the White Sox consider signing guys like Eric Hosmer and Mike Moustakas this upcoming offseason and try to speed up the rebuild?
-- Adam, Norridge, Ill., @adamchrz15
"Speed up the rebuild" is not a phrase White Sox general manager Rick Hahn has used during this process. In fact, he has preached patience at every step of the way, reminding people the rebuild has just begun -- although it has now raced past the early stage. Hahn said the money will be there to spend when the time is right, but I'm not sure this upcoming offseason will be deemed the right time.
What is your favorite food at Guaranteed Rate Field? Also who do you expect to be traded by the July 31 non-waiver Trade Deadline?
-- Jacob, Salinas, Calif., @obiwanKonerko
The turkey burgers are good at the Rate, as is the turkey deli sandwich down the right-field line near the Xfinity Zone. I also like the pulled chicken sandwich and the grilled chicken salad at the ChiSox Bar & Grill.
As for who is going to be traded, instead of listing specific names, I will say three or four players will be moved before the non-waiver Deadline. We are at one and counting.
Could you see Hahn holding on to Quintana until the Winter Meetings?
-- Ron, Chicago, @ronskidmore
Easiest Inbox question I've ever had to answer: I predict he's going to the Cubs.
In all seriousness, Hahn did an excellent job of picking up elite prospects while trading a player in Quintana who was tough to let go. Hahn, of course, is not done working.
With Seby Zavala and Zack Collins improving every day, do you think especially Zavala will be part of the future behind the plate?
-- Robert, Chicago, @rsalas233
In talking recently with Hahn about the catching situation, he mentioned Zavala by name after I left him out in my question. A position the White Sox were seemingly a little thin at in the past looks as if it's building depth within the organization. And let's not forget Evan Skoug, a seventh-round selection from the 2017 MLB Draft with great potential.
Avisail Garcia: Building block or trading chip?
-- Ken, Crestwood, Ill., @ksawilchik
Somewhere strongly in between. He certainly has proven himself during the season's first half, but if the White Sox get knocked over by an offer, I could envision a deal. I'm not expecting one, though.