In a flurry of early spring training roster moves, the Chicago White Sox have claimed right-handed pitcher Owen White off waivers from the New York Yankees. The transaction, announced on Monday, sees the well-traveled 25-year-old land with his fourth organization in just over a month.
Originally a second-round draft pick of the Texas Rangers in 2018, White made his MLB debut with the club over the past two seasons. In a small sample of five appearances, he struggled to a 16.71 ERA. The Rangers ultimately dealt him to the Cincinnati Reds in early January for cash considerations.
Potential and Versatility
Despite the rough introduction to the big leagues, White still offers intriguing potential and valuable versatility. As noted by new White Sox manager Will Venable, who is familiar with White from his time on the Rangers’ coaching staff:
“He’s got a bunch of different pitches in his arsenal. Really good kid, really somebody who can have some versatility. He can start. In Texas, he came out of the bullpen. So, really excited that we got Owen.”
– Will Venable on Owen White
That variety of pitches and ability to either start or relieve could give the White Sox some much-needed depth and options as they look to rebound from a disappointing 2024 season. With Lucas Giolito and Reynaldo López traded away last year and Ky Bush now facing Tommy John surgery, the team will need to patch some holes on the pitching staff.
Well-Traveled Path
White’s journey from Texas to Chicago took a winding road this offseason. After the January trade to the Reds, he was designated for assignment on January 29th. The Yankees claimed him off waivers on February 5th, but then also designated him for assignment last week. Now landing with the White Sox, he’ll look to carve out a role and capitalize on his untapped potential.
40-Man Roster Implications
To make room for White on the 40-man roster, the White Sox placed left-hander Ky Bush on the 60-day injured list as he recovers from Wednesday’s Tommy John surgery. Bush, along with catcher Edgar Quero, had been acquired from the Los Angeles Angels in last July’s trade involving Giolito and López.
A Fresh Start
While jumping from organization to organization isn’t ideal for any young player, the White Sox could prove to be a welcome landing spot for Owen White. With the opportunity to contribute as either a starter or multi-inning reliever, a bit more consistency, and some refinement of his undeniable raw stuff, this under-the-radar acquisition may wind up paying off nicely for a club in need of pleasant surprises.
As spring training unfolds, White’s progress and role will be a storyline to monitor for South Side fans hungry for signs of a pitching staff resurgence. If he can harness his potential and provide the depth and flexibility Venable alluded to, this small February transaction could prove quite impactful down the road.
