As the 2026 MLB season gears up, White Sox fans have had their first glimpse of the team through Cactus League action. With early spring games showcasing some standout performances and intriguing roster battles, there's a palpable sense of optimism.
But is the team's belief in a playoff berth realistic? The answer likely hinges on one critical area: the starting rotation.
The White Sox lineup is buzzing with young talent, bolstered by the additions of Munetaka Murakami and Austin Hays. This infusion of energy should make the offense a force to reckon with this season.
The bullpen has seen significant upgrades too, with the likes of Seranthony Dominguez, Sean Newcomb, and Jordan Hicks joining the ranks. Returning arms like Grant Taylor, Mike Vasil, and Jordan Leasure, who impressed in 2025, add further depth.
The bullpen could very well be a team strength. But let’s dive deeper into the starting rotation, where the real questions lie.
White Sox Starting Rotation: A Closer Look
RHP Shane Smith was a revelation in 2025, transitioning from a Rule 5 pick to an all-star. Despite a midseason slump and a stint on the IL, he finished strong.
Smith aims to build on his 146.1 innings, but improvement is needed in his curveball and slider, which were hit hard last year. His first spring outing showed some control issues, so the White Sox will be hoping he can recapture his 2025 form.
RHP Davis Martin had a decent return from Tommy John surgery, but the underlying metrics suggest room for improvement. While his control and ground ball rate were solid, he struggled to strike out hitters and gave up too much hard contact.
His xERA of 5.13 indicates he benefited from some luck. Martin needs to refine his approach to become a reliable mid-rotation starter.
LHP Anthony Kay returns to MLB after two successful years in Japan, where his sinker led to a high ground ball rate. The transition to facing major league hitters will require adjustments, but Kay could be a standout signing if he replicates his overseas success. His performance could be pivotal for the rotation.
RHP Erick Fedde rejoins the White Sox after a challenging 2025 with multiple teams. His best season came with the White Sox, and a return to form could be crucial. However, relying on a bounce-back is risky, and his performance remains uncertain.
The fifth spot in the rotation is still open, with young pitchers like Sean Burke, Tanner McDougal, Noah Schultz, and Hagen Smith vying for it. Their development will be key to the rotation’s success in 2026 and beyond.
The White Sox rotation presents a wide range of possibilities. If players like Shane Smith, Davis Martin, and Sean Burke falter, the rotation could become a liability, putting pressure on even an improved offense.
Conversely, if the rotation hits its stride, the team could be competitive in many games. A stronger bullpen could turn close contests into victories.
Ultimately, the White Sox's potential to surprise and compete this year hinges on the rotation's performance. As 2026 unfolds, this will be a crucial area to watch.