The White Sox haven’t made a splashy move in free agency just yet, but they’re staying active in the margins-and sometimes, that’s where teams find real value. Their latest move? A trade with the Tampa Bay Rays to acquire outfielder Tristan Peters in exchange for cash considerations or a player to be named later.
It’s a low-risk, potentially high-reward addition for a club clearly looking to turn over every stone in search of outfield help. This marks the second time this offseason that the White Sox have swung a deal with Tampa Bay involving an outfielder, signaling a clear intent to build depth and competition heading into spring.
Peters, 25 (he’ll be 26 by Opening Day), is a name that might not jump off the page at first glance, but there’s some intrigue here. Originally a 7th-round pick by the Brewers in 2021 out of Southern Illinois, Peters has logged parts of five seasons in the minors and made his MLB debut this past year. That debut didn’t go as hoped-he went hitless in 12 at-bats with seven strikeouts-but the bigger picture tells a more encouraging story.
In Triple-A this past season, Peters put together a solid campaign. Across 136 games, he slashed .266/.355/.429 with 15 home runs, 76 RBIs, and 11 stolen bases.
That’s a .784 OPS, and while it doesn’t scream superstar, it suggests a player with a well-rounded offensive game. He’s shown the ability to work counts, make contact, and cover the plate with a clean left-handed swing.
Add in some athleticism and defensive versatility in the outfield, and you’ve got a player who fits the mold of a modern depth piece with upside.
Across his minor league career (489 games), Peters owns a .264 average with 43 home runs, 242 RBIs, and 59 stolen bases-numbers that reflect consistency and a solid all-around game. He’s not a burner, but he runs well enough.
He’s not a power hitter, but he’s got some pop. And most importantly, he doesn’t cost the White Sox anything more than a flyer.
This move also adds another name to what’s shaping up to be a competitive battle for outfield spots in 2026. With Derek Hill and Everson Pereira already in the mix, Peters will get his shot to earn a role-whether that’s as a starting right fielder or as a fourth outfielder who can move around and contribute off the bench.
For a team in transition, these are the kinds of moves that can quietly pay off. Peters isn’t a lock to make the roster, let alone break out.
But he’s got the tools and the track record to at least make things interesting in camp. And for a White Sox team looking to find future contributors without breaking the bank, that’s a bet worth making.