The Chicago White Sox have been aggressive this offseason in improving the roster to become closer to being competitive. With 2025 about to be in the rearview, the team was able to sign a former top prospect to a minor league contract. Let’s take a closer look at who it is and what this means for the White Sox heading into 2026.
The Chicago White Sox sign Jarred Kelenic to a minor league deal
Apr 8, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves right fielder Jarred Kelenic (24) catches a fly ball against the Philadelphia Phillies in the ninth inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Jesse Rogers of ESPN was the first to report the deal. This contract includes a non-roster invitation to the big league Spring Training, meaning he will be able to compete for a spot on the roster, but it is not guaranteed. Kelenic has struggled to find his footing in the major leagues after being a highly-touted prospect. In his five-year career between the Seattle Mariners and Atlanta Braves, he has a .658 OPS with 49 home runs, 156 RBI, and 31 stolen bases in 407 games. This could also be a major move for a possible trade of Luis Robert Jr., who has been in trade discussions, primarily with the Cincinnati Reds.
With less pressure with a team not having many expectations for the 2025 season, there is a chance for Kelenic to get some playing time. Even if the Robert trade does not happen, there is a chance for him to crack the 26-man roster. He will likely be competing with Everson Pereira and Derek Hill for the fourth outfielder position on the bench, but there is less pressure on him. He brings something they do not as Kelenic is a left-handed hitter while the other two are right-handed hitters. That can bring more balance off the bench in pinch-hitting situations as their projected bench is all right-handed.
Kelenic has a chance to rewrite his struggles and turn things around as he is still only 26 years old. It will be intriuging to see if he can begin hitting ore effectivcely to the point he can be an everyday big leaguer.
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