It's roster trimming season for the Chicago White Sox, and things are getting real as they shape up for the upcoming campaign. With six players released in the last two days, including four official cuts on Friday, the team is narrowing down who will make the trip to Milwaukee.
Let's break down the latest moves:
Who's Out?
Lucas Sims showed promise in Spring Training with five scoreless innings and seven strikeouts. But last year's struggles with Washington, where he walked 19 hitters in just over 12 innings, made it clear why he didn't stick around.
Austin Voth, after a solid stint in Japan with the Chiba Lotte Marines, only had two innings in camp to make his case. It wasn’t enough to secure a spot.
Ryan Borucki, a local talent, pitched 35 innings with a high ERA last season. He was always seen as depth, and that's how it played out.
LaMonte Wade Jr. put up impressive numbers this spring with a .289/.429/.605 slash line, three homers, and nine walks. Despite his strong performance, the roster space just wasn't there, especially with Munetaka Murakami holding down first base.
Still Hanging On
Some players are still in camp but not on the Opening Day roster. Outfielder Jarred Kelenic and catcher Drew Romo fall into this category. Romo, once a top prospect, had a strong spring with an OPS over .900 and could see time in Charlotte if he clears waivers.
Kelenic, however, struggled with a .179/.273/.359 line. The potential is there, but consistency is key.
What's Next?
The bullpen is nearly set, even after losing Mike Vasil to Tommy John surgery. Seranthony Domínguez, Jordan Leasure, and others are expected to secure spots, with Jedixson Paez being a potential hold despite a tough spring.
Position players face a crowded field. Murakami is locked at first, while the DH spot will see a rotation. The middle infield is set with Chase Meidroth and Colson Montgomery, and Edgar Quero is behind the plate.
In the outfield, Austin Hays and Andrew Benintendi are mainstays, but mixing and matching will be necessary with players like Brooks Baldwin, Luis Acuña, Derek Hill, and Everson Pereira in the mix. Baldwin's arm injury could influence final decisions.
The easy cuts are done, and now the White Sox face the tough task of finalizing their roster. The decisions ahead will shape their season, and every move counts as they prepare for the challenges to come.