As another lost season winds down, Chicago White Sox look forward to 2020

The regular season doesn't end until Sunday, but Chicago White Sox manager Rick Renteria already is looking ahead to 2020.

"I can't wait for the spring," Renteria said.

With a solid young core coming back, top prospects Luis Robert and Nick Madrigal on the verge of reaching the majors and starter Michael Kopech due back from Tommy John surgery, the Sox could very well post their first winning record since 2012.

They also have plenty of payroll room to fill holes in the starting rotation, right field, bullpen and at designated hitter.

The White Sox played the waiting game last off-season and missed out on two prized targets - Manny Machado and Bryce Harper.

Look for them to move much quicker this year and have the depth chart set before spring training starts.

"As soon as our regular season is over, I'm already thinking about the spring," Renteria said. "I think everybody's going to try and do everything they can to put us in a better position next year. In specific, those guys that are in (the clubhouse), and then whatever we're capable of doing throughout the winter.

"But there's a genuine, palpable feel about how positive we intend to be going into (next) season."

Award watch:

Comeback Player of the Year.

It's an award that players from both leagues accept, but it typically comes with a price.

Bouncing back from injury or overcoming a poor past performance are the two most common criteria for eventual winners, who are determined by major-league baseball.

The White Sox have several candidates for American League honors, headed by Lucas Giolito.

A year ago, the Sox's right-handed starting pitcher had the highest ERA in baseball and the most walks in the AL.

Shut down for the remainder of the current season after being diagnosed with a mild lat strain on Sept. 16, Giolito was 14-9 with a 3.41 ERA, and he ranks among league leaders with 228 strikeouts.

"We've had a lot of guys that have actually put some good years together, including Yoan (Moncada) and Timmy (Anderson)," manager Rick Renteria said. "(James) McCann, who we got in the winter, we've got some guys that have stepped it up and put themselves on the map."

On the mend:

Veteran radio voice Ed Farmer will miss the remainder of the season as he recovers at his Southern California home from a medical matter that was treated in Chicago over the weekend.

Andy Masur will finish out the week in Farmer's place on WGN 720-AM.