The Chicago White Sox are shaking things up this season, and it’s not just about their recent signings—it’s about who will step up to fill the critical gaps in their starting rotation. After a season where they struggled to piece together innings, the Sox have signed left-handers Sean Newcomb and Anthony Kay, moves that might not grab headlines but could be the quiet backbone their pitching staff desperately needs. But here’s where it gets controversial: are these signings enough to transform a team that threw the fewest innings in the league last year? Let’s dive in.
Newcomb, a nine-year MLB veteran, inked a two-year, $4.5 million deal, drawn to the Sox by the chance to “eat up innings.” Despite not starting more than five games in a season since 2018, he brings a “starter’s mentality” honed through his ability to pitch long outings from the bullpen. At 32, he’s a seasoned voice in a young, inexperienced rotation. “I still feel young in the game,” he said, “but looking at the Sox roster, I realized I’ll be one of the older guys come spring.”
Newcomb’s connection to the Sox runs deeper than his contract. He worked with senior pitching advisor Brian Bannister in 2023 while in the Giants’ minor-league system, crediting Bannister with helping him refine his sinker—a pitch that led to his effective slider. With a 1.75 ERA after May 29 last season, the Sox are betting he can step into the rotation, filling the void left by Martin Perez’s departure.
And this is the part most people miss: Newcomb isn’t just a pitcher; he’s a mentor. “Having been successful in different ways, he can help our players,” said Sox coach Venable. But will his experience translate into consistent starts? That’s the million-dollar question.
The competition for the rotation spots is wide open, with right-handers Sean Burke (4.22 ERA) and Jonathan Cannon (5.82 ERA) also in the mix. Both started last season in the majors but were sent down after rough patches. “We’re excited to see who steps up and grabs it,” Venable added, emphasizing flexibility in how these pitchers will be used.
The Sox’s offseason moves haven’t stopped at pitching. They also signed Japanese star Munetaka Murakami to a two-year, $34 million deal, but the rotation remains the biggest question mark. Other contenders include Rule 5 draft pick Jedixson Paez, though his inexperience makes him a long shot, and left-hander Chris Murphy, acquired from the Red Sox, who posted a 3.12 ERA last season in relief.
Improving their 28-37 second-half record from last season hinges on better rotation performance. But as prospects like Hagen Smith and Noah Schultz have shown, progress isn’t always linear. Here’s a thought-provoking question: Can a team with so many unproven arms truly turn things around? Newcomb thinks so. “Any team can flip the switch any year,” he said. “It’s about staying mentally even-keel, no matter the situation.”
So, what do you think? Are the Sox setting themselves up for success, or are they relying too heavily on unproven talent? Let’s hear your take in the comments!
