The White Sox appeared to finalize their rotation with the return of Erick Fedde, signaling stability before spring training officially begins.
Jun 15, 2025; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets pitcher Griffin Canning (46) walks to the dugout during the middle of the fifth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images | Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
On the surface, the move suggested Chicago was finished adding starting pitching depth for 2026.
Yet recent reports connecting the team to Griffin Canning refuse to disappear.
Canning recently threw for interested teams while recovering from a torn Achilles suffered last June.
Earlier in the offseason, Chicago had already been linked to the twenty-nine-year-old right-hander.
At first glance, pursuing Canning after signing Fedde felt redundant and unnecessary.
However, Fedde’s addition may actually strengthen the logic behind the rumor.
Fedde provides immediate innings and low-risk stability while younger arms continue developing.
Chicago expects prospects like Hagen Smith and Noah Schultz to reach the majors later this season.
Returning pitchers from Tommy John surgery also factor into long-term planning.
Canning’s recovery timeline suggests he could return midseason rather than Opening Day.
That timing aligns more comfortably now that Fedde can shoulder early workload responsibilities.
If Fedde performs well, he becomes a trade candidate at the deadline.
If he struggles, his contract allows the White Sox to pivot quickly.
Canning could then slide into the rotation with minimal disruption.
The organization learned last season how fragile pitching depth can become.
Multiple injuries forced Chicago to cycle through a surprising number of starters.
Depth that once appeared excessive evaporated within weeks.
Signing Canning would represent insurance against repeating that scenario.
A two-year structure could benefit both sides financially and strategically.
Canning would regain value while the White Sox secure optionality for 2027.
The move would not guarantee success, but it would reduce vulnerability.
Fedde’s signing may not have closed the book on pitching additions.
Instead, it may have quietly created space for the next calculated move.
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