The White Sox entered this offseason with urgency, and the resulting roster already looks noticeably deeper than it did twelve months ago.
Chicago addressed multiple weaknesses, adding pitching depth and offensive reinforcements while signaling a more competitive posture for 2026.
Despite that progress, the rotation still lacks a stabilizing veteran presence capable of absorbing innings reliably.
That need remains glaring as spring training approaches and the free-agent pitching market oddly lingers.
Nearly twenty established starters remain unsigned, creating a rare buyer’s opportunity this late in the winter.
Zack Littell stands out as a particularly clean fit given his durability and recent consistency.
He’s eclipsed one hundred fifty innings in consecutive seasons while maintaining mid-three ERA production.
Littell’s bullpen experience also provides flexibility if younger arms push for rotation spots later.
Chris Bassitt represents a different appeal, built almost entirely on reliability and endurance.
At thirty-seven, Bassitt continues to log heavy workloads with above-average results.
His familiarity with Chicago and reputation as an innings-eater align with the White Sox’s immediate needs.
Competition from contenders complicates matters, but financial leverage could keep Chicago involved.
Then there’s Justin Verlander, a name loaded with irony and significance for White Sox fans.
At forty-three, Verlander still contributes meaningful innings through precision rather than overpowering stuff.
His mentorship alone could accelerate development across a young pitching staff.
Like Bassitt, Verlander could view Chicago as a bridge rather than a destination.
A midseason trade would remain an option if circumstances align.
Each candidate offers something different, but all share one trait: stability.
For a team finishing its rebuild phase, that matters.
The White Sox have momentum.
Now they just need to close.
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