Chicago White Sox option right-hander Jonathan Cannon to Triple-A Charlotte, missing the 2026 Opening Day roster.

The Chicago White Sox have optioned right-handed pitcher Jonathan Cannon to Triple-A Charlotte, the team announced Tuesday via its official X account. The 25-year-old will not make the club’s Opening Day roster.

Cannon appeared in four Cactus League games this spring, going 1-0 with a 4.09 ERA over 11 innings. He struck out 10 batters and walked five for a 1.45 WHIP. Manager Will Venable noted improvements in Cannon’s pitch count leverage and running game but cited five established starters ahead of him in the rotation battle.

The White Sox starter for the March 26 opener against the Milwaukee Brewers is set with Shane Smith announced as the starting pitcher weeks ago. Alongside Smith, Sean Burke, Anthony Kay, Davis Martin, and Erick Fedde will round out the rest of the Sox starting rotation out of camp. Cannon, meanwhile, will open the season in Charlotte’s starting rotation to stay stretched out and provide organizational depth.

The Georgia product endured a tough 2025 campaign, posting a 5.82 ERA across 22 appearances (17 starts). He spent time at Triple-A during the season, refining his mechanics, and made his MLB debut in 2024.

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Cannon entered Spring Training with a legitimate shot at a rotation or bullpen role but ultimately lost out as the White Sox prioritized proven arms for the 2026 Opening Day roster. He remains a key long-term piece and could return to Chicago as needed once the season begins.