January 11, 2024
The Chicago White Sox have successfully agreed to terms on one-year contracts with seven players, thereby avoiding arbitration. These agreements reflect the organization’s commitment to maintaining a competitive roster for the upcoming season.
Key Signings and Contract Details
- Dylan Cease: Right-handed pitcher Cease, who was the American League Cy Young Award runner-up in 2022, secured an $8.0 million deal. Last season, Cease went 14-8 with a commendable 2.20 ERA.
- Nicky Lopez: The infielder agreed to a contract worth $4.3 million. Lopez, along with Michael Soroka, joined the White Sox in a trade with the Atlanta Braves in December.
- Andrew Vaughn: The first baseman signed for $3.25 million. Vaughn transitioned back to his natural position of first base after spending much of his first two seasons in the outfield, slashing .258/.314/.429 with 21 home runs and 80 RBIs.
- Michael Kopech: Right-handed pitcher Kopech also agreed to a $3.0 million contract. He had a record of 5-12 with a 5.43 ERA in 30 appearances (27 starts) in 2023.
- Michael Soroka: Right-handed pitcher Soroka, also part of the aforementioned trade with Atlanta, signed for $3.0 million.
- Touki Toussaint: Right-handed pitcher Toussaint, who went 4-6 with a 4.97 ERA in 19 outings (15 starts) with the Sox, agreed to a $1.3 million deal.
- Garrett Crochet: The left-handed pitcher signed for $800,000. Crochet is planning to transition from the bullpen to the rotation.
Additional Front Office Move
The White Sox also announced the appointment of Jin Wong as assistant general manager. Wong, who spent the previous 24 seasons with the Kansas City Royals, will be responsible for overseeing contract negotiations, salary arbitration, budgeting and payroll management, and compliance with MLB rules and regulations.
The Chicago White Sox’s strategy of signing these players to one-year contracts demonstrates a focused approach to building a competitive team for the 2024 season. The mix of promising talents and experienced players like Cease and Vaughn is expected to contribute significantly to the team’s performance in the upcoming season.
