White Sox News: Tommy Pham’s Arrival in Chicago Seen as a ‘Boost In Work Ethic’ After They Snap 7-Game Skid

The Chicago White Sox are certainly living in the worst possible timeline. Their cross-town rivals are enjoying a resurgence in form and the Sox are struggling with a 4-22 start. This is historically the worst start for the franchise. However, at least for the Sox, they’ve sapped their 7-game losing streak with a 9-4 win against the Tampa Bay Rays. What’s more encouraging is that it came after a great performance by their latest arrival, Tommy Pham.

The 36-year-old Pham had signed with the White Sox on April 16. But the team immediately sent the outfielder to the minor leagues to ramp up. However, within four games, the White Sox were forced to call Pham up. While this signing was seen as a minor gamble, it may have worked well for the team. As noted by top insider Ken Rosenthal, the veteran could bring a new element to the White Sox clubhouse. 

“Tommy Pham is going to come in there and raise the standard of work ethic and raise the standard in general,” Rosenthal said on the Foul Territory Show. “That’s what he does. He did it for the Mets, it’s what he did for the Diamondbacks…He will add a degree of professionalism that I don’t want to say is lacking there but the fire might be something that they can use.” 

Tommy Pham hit two singles in his White Sox debut. That proved to be a deciding factor for the team that had joined a historical list with its 3-22 start. It had joined the likes of Cincinnati Red (2022), Detroit Tigers (2003), and Washington Senators (1894) as the team to have started its first 25 games with only 3 wins. 

However, now that they’ve broken that losing streak, the White Sox are hoping to at least end up with a respectful number. Pham too, looks quite happy with this opportunity to return to the major leagues.

Tommy Pham shares his happiness after his Chicago White Sox debut 

“I look at it as a blessing and as an opportunity to show the work I put in the offseason.” Pham said. “I lost some weight to be athletic and I’m excited for the opportunity.” (Via ESPN) 

Tommy Pham is entering into his 11th major league season. Interestingly, the White Sox are the eighth team he’s playing for. He played for the New York Mets before getting traded to the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2023. There, Pham led the D-Backs toward a surprising World Series appearance. The Sox manager, Pedro Grifol, stated that at least for now Pham will help fill the gap in the center. 

So as it stands, the White Sox have found some hope during dark times. For Tommy Pham, this is a great opportunity. If he continues to perform strongly, perhaps his return to the major leagues might be extended. As of now, that seems to be the aim of the 36-year-old veteran. Will he succeed? Hopefully, the answer will arrive soon.