The Chicago White Sox endured a disastrous 2024 season, one of the worst in franchise history, leaving them with significant decisions to make as they prepare for 2025. Amid rumors of potential trades involving key players like Luis Robert Jr. and Garrett Crochet, the White Sox still face the challenge of assembling a competitive roster. One option under consideration is targeting New York Yankees starter Alex Verdugo in free agency.
According to The Athletic’s Jim Bowden, Verdugo could be a viable addition for the White Sox. Bowden suggests that Chicago might pursue the 28-year-old on a two-year, $26 million contract, despite his recent struggles.
“They might have to overpay some free agents to get them to come to Chicago after a historically bad season,” Bowden wrote. “Verdugo is coming off a subpar season in which he hit just .233 with 13 home runs and an 83 OPS+. However, he’s only 28 and has hit .272/.328/.414 for his career. With Chicago, he could play every day and restore his value enough to be a trade piece come July.”
Verdugo’s 2024 campaign with the Yankees started strong but faded as the season progressed. Despite his struggles, he maintained his commitment to helping the team, making 145 starts over the year. While his offensive output dipped, he remains a player with potential upside. The White Sox are in dire need of players who can contribute immediately while also offering trade value for the future. Verdugo fits that mold.
In the postseason, Verdugo delivered mixed results, going 10-for-48 at the plate with eight RBIs and one home run. His postseason performance highlights his ability to contribute in key moments, even during a down year. For the White Sox, Verdugo represents an opportunity to acquire a player who could bounce back with regular playing time and potentially become a valuable trade asset by the midseason deadline.
The Yankees face their own set of challenges when evaluating Verdugo’s future. While they may consider retaining him, that decision largely hinges on other roster moves, particularly whether they can retain star slugger Juan Soto. If Soto remains with the Yankees, Verdugo’s role could become less critical, making a departure more likely.
For the White Sox, signing Verdugo could serve as a low-risk, high-reward move. A return to form could help both the player and the team, allowing Verdugo to rebuild his value and possibly join a contending team later in the season. Meanwhile, the White Sox could benefit from improved depth and the potential to acquire prospects in a future trade, helping to address their long-term rebuilding efforts.
