The White Sox took a bold swing in the Rule 5 Draft.
It didn’t last long.
A Quick Turn After a Big Bet
Chicago has already decided to move on from right-hander Alexander Alberto, placing the 24-year-old on waivers just weeks into spring training.
It’s a notable shift for a team that found rare success in the Rule 5 process just one year ago.
Back in 2025, Shane Smith turned into an All-Star as a Rule 5 selection, while Mike Vasil carved out a meaningful role on the pitching staff. This time, the gamble didn’t pay off.
The Appeal Was Obvious
Alberto wasn’t just another depth arm.
He arrived with a fastball that had touched triple digits and a sharp slider that hinted at late-inning potential. That kind of raw stuff is exactly what teams look for when taking Rule 5 risks.
But there was always a catch.
He had never pitched above High-A.
That made the jump to the majors — and even spring training competition — a steep one.
Spring Training Told the Story
The results quickly raised concerns.
Across seven appearances, Alberto struggled to find consistency. He gave up eight earned runs on 12 hits, along with four walks. Just as concerning, his velocity dipped below expectations, sitting closer to 97 mph rather than the upper-90s to 100 mph range he had previously shown.
Command issues only made things worse.
For a team with improved bullpen depth and limited roster flexibility, it became difficult to justify holding a spot for a developmental project.
The Reality of Rule 5 Decisions
Rule 5 picks come with a unique challenge.
To keep a player, a team must carry him on the active roster all season. That’s a tough commitment — especially for a player still adjusting to higher levels of competition.
The White Sox clearly saw the upside in Alberto, but the timing didn’t align.
Now, the rest of the league will have a chance to claim him under the same conditions. If he clears waivers, Chicago must offer him back to the Rays.
What This Means for the Bullpen
Alberto’s departure could quietly signal something else.
The White Sox still have another Rule 5 pitcher in camp — Jedixson Paez — and this move may increase his chances of making the Opening Day roster.
With Mike Vasil’s injury creating uncertainty, there’s room for another multi-inning option. Paez, younger and potentially more adaptable right now, may have the edge.
More Decisions Ahead
Chicago still has work to do before finalizing its roster.
Several players were reassigned to minor league camp, but the team remains well above the 26-man limit with just over a week to go before Opening Day.
More tough calls are coming.
A Miss — But Not a Mistake
The White Sox knew the risk when they selected Alberto.
Sometimes those bets turn into breakout stories. Other times, they end quietly before the season even begins.
This one falls into the latter category.
But for a team still building depth and searching for upside, it was a risk worth taking — even if it didn’t stick.
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