White Sox Starting Rotation Battle Will Include Surprise Name

The White Sox have been one of the busiest teams in MLB this offseason, making several signings and trades this winter to improve the bullpen, first base, and the outfield. Despite their flurry of activity, the starting rotation remains an area of the roster that needs significant improvement. And it appears their plan to address that could come internally. White Sox manager Will Venable recently joined the Mully & Haugh Show on 670 The Score to discuss the state of the starting rotation, indicating that Mike Vasil will enter spring training as a candidate to earn a rotation spot.

Vasil, 25, was one of the biggest surprises on the 2025 White Sox as a rookie. He joined the team as a waiver claim in late March and remained on the roster all season long as a Rule 5 pick, becoming the most consistent reliever in the bullpen. Across 101 innings, he recorded a 2.50 ERA, 1.25 WHIP, and 7.3 K/9, often pitching in multi-inning stints. He also started three games and recorded four saves, taking the ball in whatever role he was asked to pitch in.

Vasil had only one appearance last season of more than four innings, but his time as a reliever with the White Sox was the exception for him historically, not the norm. He was a starting pitcher in college for the University of Virginia, as well as in the minors with the Mets organization. The White Sox will give him an opportunity to build off the season he just had in hopes of playing an even bigger role in the starting rotation in 2026.

State of White Sox Rotation

As of now, Shane Smith, Davis Martin, and Anthony Kay appear to be the only locks in the White Sox rotation to open the season, which Venable noted. He also mentioned Sean Burke and Jonathan Cannon as other options. Robert Murray, MLB Insider for Fansided, does not believe the team is done adding either. It’s possible they could bring in another starting pitcher to create more competition in spring training. Depending on how the rest of the offseason plays out, Vasil could have a legitimate chance to earn a rotation spot out of spring training.

The White Sox offseason activity has created the flexibility needed to give Vasil this opportunity. The team added both Sean Newcomb and Jordan Hicks this winter, who bring multi-inning bullpen experience. Rule 5 pick Jedixson Paez and right-hander Grant Taylor also profile as pitchers capable of handling extended outings. That added depth and flexibility allows the club to replace Vasil’s bullpen innings without weakening the bullpen, giving him the chance to start in the process.

Big Spring Ahead

The White Sox starting rotation figures to be one of the most competitive battles in camp this spring. There are multiple spots up for grabs with several interesting names vying for the job. Mike Vasil is a name to watch as pitchers and catchers report to camp in just a few weeks. He is in prime position to take another step forward in 2026.