Prediction #1:
The most important player for the 2024 White Sox will be Andrew Benintendi.
Last offseason he elected not to get hand surgery and played the entire season through what he described as significant pain. I imagine that played a huge factor in his drop-off of power at the plate. His best days in 2023 were batting leadoff during the Tim Anderson absence, and in order to be successful that version of Benny needs to be back in 2024.
His lack of power at the plate was not the only downfall for Andrew in 2023 as he led leftfielders in errors last year, despite playing “safe” defense. While he didn’t let many balls go by him, I can’t recall a great play made in LF. It seemed to be a lot of late jumps, ball dropping in front of him, and holding batters to singles. With the lack of pitching depth, these free runners are important to keep off of base.
In 2024 I expect Benny to be back to 15 HR with 15 SB along with stronger defense after a full year next to his rangy partner in CF. The resurgence of Benny is paramount to the 80 win season. A strong leadoff hitter that can run the bases should free up the power sitting at 3-5 in the lineup.