white Sox Ink Versatile Infielder Josh Rojas to One-Year Deal
The Chicago White sox have added depth to their infield, signing free agent Josh rojas to a one-year contract, according to a report by Scott Merkin of MLB.com. While the financial terms remain undisclosed, the move signals the Sox’s commitment to bolstering their defensive capabilities.
Rojas, who turns 31 in June, was surprisingly non-tendered by the Seattle Mariners in november. This came as a surprise considering his strong performance earlier in the 2024 season. “He had been a key piece of the trade that sent closer Paul sewald to arizona at the 2023 trade deadline and had hit a respectable .272/.321/.400 (105 wRC+) down the stretch with the Mariners,” Merkin noted. His hot start to 2024, boasting a .318/.408/.530 (175 wRC+) line through April, further highlighted his potential.However, a significant slump in the latter half of the season, culminating in a.184/.265/.272 (62 wRC+) line over the final two months, ultimately led to his release.
MLBTR contributor Matt Swartz projected Rojas’s 2025 arbitration salary at $4.3 million. Despite this, his defensive prowess and positional versatility made him a desirable acquisition for several teams. “Even so, a weak free agent market for infielders made Rojas immediately one of the more intriguing lower-level free agent options available on this winter’s market,” Merkin explained. While his offensive contributions have been inconsistent, his defensive skills are undeniable. As the start of 2023, Rojas has accumulated +8 Outs Above Average at second base and +6 OAA at third base. Defensive Runs Saved, while slightly less effusive, still rates him as an above-average fielder overall.
Rojas’s experience at shortstop and in the outfield corners, though with less impressive defensive metrics in those positions, adds to his value. His ability to play multiple positions, combined with his defensive skills and history of league-average hitting, made him a sought-after player this offseason. The Chicago Cubs were reportedly among the teams seriously interested in acquiring him, perhaps to back up Nico Hoerner. However, the White Sox ultimately secured his services.
The addition of Rojas provides the White Sox with a valuable utility player who can contribute both offensively and defensively. His signing represents a strategic move to strengthen their infield depth and overall team flexibility for the upcoming season.
White Sox Infield shuffle: Rojas’s Role and the 2025 Season
The Chicago White Sox have made a significant move to bolster their infield, adding depth and potentially paving the way for a breakout season from a promising young player. With the addition of lenyn Sosa and top prospect Matt Shaw,the team’s infield picture for 2025 is taking shape,offering intriguing possibilities and potential for a competitive season.
The White Sox currently project a dynamic mix of players at shortstop, second, and third base, including Miguel Vargas, Lenyn Sosa, jacob Amaya, and Brooks Baldwin. Vargas,a recent top-100 prospect acquired in the trade that sent Michael kopech,Tommy Pham,and Erick Fedde to another team last summer,is expected to be a regular starter. Though, the addition of Sosa and Shaw creates a competitive landscape for playing time.
“While Vargas seems ticketed for everyday starts,” one baseball analyst noted, “Rojas should be able to capture regular reps at whichever of second or third base Vargas doesn’t end up playing.” This competition for playing time could push Sosa to excel, potentially leading to a significant contribution to the team’s success.
Sosa’s performance against left-handed pitching presents a strategic challenge. He hit a mere “.133/.224/.133 against southpaws last year,” highlighting a significant platoon split. The White Sox may choose to give him opportunities to improve against lefties during their rebuild,or they might opt for a platoon arrangement with a right-handed hitter like Sosa to maximize his offensive output. This decision will likely influence the team’s strategy heading into what’s expected to be another active trade deadline this year.
For the White Sox, the acquisition of Sosa provides much-needed stability to their infield, addressing a key area of concern this offseason. furthermore, Sosa’s performance could make him a valuable trade chip at the midseason deadline. Simultaneously occurring,Sosa himself has a chance to establish himself as a regular contributor and potentially elevate his value within the association.
The White Sox’s moves this offseason signal a commitment to developing young talent while also maintaining flexibility for future trades.the 2025 season promises to be an exciting one, with the potential for several young players to make their mark on the major leagues.
MLB Free Agency: Infield Shuffle After Rojas Signing
The MLB offseason is in full swing, and the recent signing of infielder Jonathan Rojas has significantly reshaped the free agent market. With a key player off the board,teams are now scrambling to find suitable replacements,creating a flurry of activity among remaining free agents.
Several intriguing infielders remain unsigned, offering a mix of experience and potential for clubs seeking to bolster their rosters. Among the available players are veterans who could provide valuable depth and versatility. Names like whit Merrifield, Donovan Solano, and Cavan Biggio stand out as players capable of filling part-time or bench roles, bringing a wealth of experience to the table. Merrifield, Solano, and Biggio offer a blend of defensive skills and offensive capabilities.
For teams seeking everyday players, other options exist in the lower tiers of free agency. Jorge Polanco, Paul DeJong, and Jose Iglesias represent a group of potential everyday starters available to teams looking to fill a starting role. These players bring different strengths to the table, offering general managers a variety of choices based on their team’s specific needs.
Adding an international element to the mix is Hyeseong Kim, a player recently posted by the KBO’s Kiwoom Heroes. Kim presents a unique opportunity for MLB teams,offering a chance to acquire a talented player from a different league. The deadline for signing Kim is fast approaching, making him a high-stakes player in this late-stage free agency period.
The coming days promise to be pivotal as teams finalize their rosters before Spring Training. The remaining infielders on the market will be closely scrutinized as teams look to fill their needs and solidify their chances for a successful season. The impact of Rojas’ signing will undoubtedly be felt throughout the league as teams adjust their strategies and compete for the remaining talent.
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