As spring training approaches, the White Sox can finally evaluate an offseason that aimed to build momentum after tangible progress during 2025.

Dec 22, 2025; Chicago, Il, USA; New Chicago White Sox player Munetaka Murakami, right, speaks with general manager Chris Getz, left, during a press conference where he was introduced at Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images | Matt Marton-Imagn Images
General manager Chris Getz was aggressive, flexible, and willing to gamble, signaling a front office ready to accelerate the rebuilding timeline.
At the top of the list sits the signing of Munetaka Murakami, a move that stunned much of the league.
Murakami gives Chicago elite power upside while opening the door to international relevance the franchise previously ignored.
The short-term structure limits risk while offering massive reward, making it the clearest win of the offseason.

Next comes the signing of Anthony Kay, a low-cost bet modeled after the Erick Fedde success story.
Kay immediately fills innings, stabilizes the rotation, and could become a valuable trade chip if he performs well early.
Seranthony Dominguez ranks closely behind, addressing a bullpen that cost the White Sox countless close games last season.

His presence supports younger relievers and adds late-inning credibility without a burdensome financial commitment.
The trade sending Gage Ziehl out for Jordan Hicks and David Sandlin reflects smart use of payroll flexibility.
Chicago sacrificed little while adding upside arms that could impact both the bullpen and rotation within a year.

Signing Austin Hays provided much-needed veteran stability after moving Luis Robert Jr., though the impact feels more cosmetic than transformative.
Hays improves watchability and lineup balance but does not materially change the team’s competitive ceiling.
Sean Newcomb’s deal carries the widest variance, depending entirely on whether he ends up starting or relieving.

As rotation depth, the move is defensible, but as a starting solution it remains unsettling.
Far below the rest sits the Luis Robert Jr. trade, a decision that still feels unnecessary and overly cautious.
The financial relief was marginal, the return uninspiring, and the upside of keeping Robert arguably outweighed the perceived risk.

Ultimately, the White Sox offseason shows ambition and creativity, but one controversial move ensures this winter will be judged for years to come.
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