White Sox Aim to Build on Strong Second Half Momentum

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White Sox Aim to Build on Strong Second Half Momentum

GLENDALE, Ariz. -- Fresh off a second-half surge that offered a glimpse of brighter days, the Chicago White Sox are entering the new season with a palpable sense of optimism as they aim to propel their rebuilding project to new heights. After enduring three consecutive seasons with over 100 losses, the team is pointing to a busy and productive offseason, the continued development of its young core, and a unique bond among players as key factors for a potential turnaround.

The sentiment of improvement was echoed by pitcher Mike Vasil on the opening day of spring training. "I think we're going to be good," Vasil stated candidly. "I think we're a good team. We also have a lot of energy. I think we're all bonded over experiences. And we're all friends. That plays such a vital role on a team. You're not just a work partner. We genuinely care about each other." This emphasis on chemistry and genuine connection underscores a shift in the team's culture, aiming to transform individual talent into collective success.

Vasil is now part of a bolstered bullpen, which features new additions like closer Seranthony Domínguez and Jordan Hicks, bringing valuable experience and high-leverage arms to the relief corps. On the offensive side, the White Sox have made significant moves, notably acquiring Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami and outfielder Austin Hays. These acquisitions are expected to inject much-needed power and offensive consistency into the lineup. They join a team that already showed signs of life, finishing in the upper half of the league in OPS during the second half of last season, including a top-10 ranking in home runs, indicating a potent offense when clicking.

The enthusiasm for the team's trajectory is not confined to the players. "When you're at home in the offseason and you're seeing the team is improving, it's very, very exciting," Vasil added. This improvement was statistically significant, as the team posted a 28-37 record after the All-Star break last season. While not enough to overcome the deficit built in the first half, it represented a substantial leap forward for an organization that had previously set a modern-day record for losses in a single season with 121 just two years prior, followed by another 102-loss campaign in 2025. The hope is that the most challenging years are now behind them.

General Manager Chris Getz acknowledged the momentum generated, stating, "There's a fair amount of momentum that's been created both because of the second half last year and some of the acquisitions that we were able to make in the offseason." He expressed confidence in the team's current standing: "So yeah, we feel really good about where we're at. The room is excited, they're hungry, but we have to go out and play good baseball. And that's why we're out here in spring training to really set the stage for that." Getz's comments highlight a strategic approach to team building, focusing on both internal development and external reinforcements, all while emphasizing the need for execution on the field.

The starting rotation also sees a boost with the return of veteran right-hander Eric Fedde. Fedde is set to join a group that includes Davis Martin, Jonathan Cannon, Sean Burke, Shane Smith, and newcomer Anthony Kay, adding depth and experience to the pitching staff. This competition within the rotation is expected to foster growth and accountability among the pitchers.

Similarly, the outfield presents intriguing competition. Hays will vie for playing time alongside fellow newcomer Luisangel Acuña, who was acquired from the Mets in a notable trade involving Luis Robert Jr. This influx of talent and competition across multiple positions signals a commitment to building a deeper, more competitive roster.

"All that competition is good," commented pitcher Jonathan Cannon. "It brings out the best in us. We're all friends. That breeds all sort of success." When asked about the team's primary focus, Cannon was unequivocal: "One thousand percent." He elaborated, "I think this clubhouse is focused on winning. We know we can. We have a lot of talent in this clubhouse. We acquired guys this offseason. We're excited to see them play. I think it's a great unit. I'm excited to see where it takes us this year." This sentiment reflects a significant cultural shift towards prioritizing wins above all else.

The American League Central division, while not featuring a 90-win team last year, has proven to be a competitive landscape. Three teams from the division made the postseason in 2024, and both Cleveland and Detroit advanced again in 2025. This context raises the question of whether the White Sox can finally break into the playoff conversation.

Reflecting on the team's second-half performance, Getz noted, "We won some really, really good series against some good ball clubs." A significant moment cited by players was a September series win in Detroit. However, the season concluded with series sweeps against formidable opponents like the Guardians, Orioles, and Yankees, underscoring the challenges that remain. Despite this, the outlook for 2026 is brighter. With an improving offense, a reinforced bullpen, and the anticipation of the No. 1 pick in the upcoming amateur draft, there is a tangible sense of optimism surrounding the White Sox for the first time in years.

"The last couple of years you heard a lot of growing as a group," Cannon reflected. "Now, we have a couple seasons under our belt. It's time to go out there and win some ballgames." This seasoned perspective suggests the team is ready to transition from development to contention.

Ekhbary News Agency