Chicago White Sox Secure Owen White: A Strategic Move to Bolster Pitching Depth

The Chicago White Sox made a significant move to strengthen their pitching staff by claiming Owen White off waivers from the New York Yankees on Monday. This acquisition adds another layer of depth to their roster as they prepare for the upcoming MLB season.

Owen White, a 25-year-old right-hander, has had a tumultuous journey through the majors. Originally drafted by the Texas Rangers in the second round of the 2018 amateur draft, White has made five appearances over the past two years, posting an 0-1 record with a 16.71 ERA.

White’s versatility and diverse pitching arsenal have been key factors in the White Sox’s interest. Will Venable, Chicago’s manager, who previously worked with White during his tenure with the Rangers, expressed enthusiasm about the new addition. "He's got a bunch of different pitches in his arsenal," Venable said. "Really good kid, really somebody who can have some versatility. He can start. In Texas, he came out of the bullpen. So, really excited that we got Owen."

The White Sox had to make room for White on their 40-man roster by placing left-hander Ky Bush on the 60-day injured list. Bush recently underwent Tommy John surgery, sidelining him for the foreseeable future. This move indicates the White Sox’s commitment to building a competitive pitching staff for the season.

White’s journey has been eventful, with multiple trades and designations in a short span. He was traded to the Cincinnati Reds on January 6, designated for assignment on January 29, and subsequently claimed off waivers by the Yankees on February 5. The White Sox’s latest claim marks another chapter in White’s evolving career.

As the White Sox integrate White into their roster, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this addition impacts their overall performance in the highly competitive American League.