The Chicago White Sox face a pivotal offseason as Luis Robert Jr. draws trade interest from the Pittsburgh Pirates, Mets, and Padres. Could a blockbuster deal reshape both franchises, or will GM Chris Getz hold out for a top-tier return? The discussion explores Pittsburgh’s deep farm system, weighing the pros and cons of acquiring prospects like Rafael Flores, Thomas Harrington, and Esmerlyn Valdez if salary is covered.

Host Todd Welter examines missed opportunities with free agents Adolis García and Josh Bell, questioning the Sox’s reluctance to spend and the likelihood of settling for internal options like Brooks Baldwin and Lenyn Sosa. Listener mail spotlights the race between 2024 top draft prospects Rock Cholowsky and Billy Carlson—who will reach MLB first? Get insights on the Sox’s rebuilding strategy, free agency priorities, and prospects’ development timeline. Are the White Sox ready to make bold moves or destined for another year of bridge options?

0:00 – Luis Robert Jr. Trade Rumors

Host Todd Welter introduces the show and discusses the ongoing trade rumors surrounding Luis Robert Jr., focusing on the Pittsburgh Pirates' reported interest, trade package expectations, farm system deep dive, and impact on the White Sox.

11:33 – White Sox First Base & Right Field Plans

Todd Welter analyzes the White Sox’s recent missed opportunities in free agency (Adolis Garcia, Josh Bell), what it means for first base and right field next season, internal options, and broader organizational spending strategy.

21:19 – Mailbag: Next Shortstop ETA

Dedicated to answering listener Bob’s question: if the Sox take Rock Cholowsky next July, will he or Billy Carlson reach MLB first? Todd Welter gives a breakdown of player development timelines, swing adjustments, and historical rookie call-ups.

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The Chicago White Sox face mounting frustration as big-ticket signings pass them by. Is ownership’s reluctance to make major moves sabotaging their rebuild chances? Recent offseasons have seen the Sox limited to waiver wire pickups and bargain signings, while coveted stars like Pete Alonso and Cody Bellinger land elsewhere. Trade talks with the New York Mets stall as financial inflexibility impacts possible deals involving Luis Robert Jr.

Host Todd Welter breaks down the White Sox’s “minor move mindset.” He also goes over the weekend bottom-of-the-market acquisitions of pitcher Ryan Rolison and infielder Oliver Dunn, along with Tim Elko coming back on a minor-league deal.

Todd also weighs in on Caleb Bonemer’s ascent as the organization’s top prospect according to Baseball Prospectus and the changing landscape of the farm system.

0:00 — Minor Moves vs. Major Moves
Host Todd Welter opens the show discussing the White Sox’s tendency to make minor additions, arguing that while every team shops the bargain bin, frustration over the lack of big, bold moves is justified—especially given missed opportunities with major free agents.

10:42 — Weekend moves made
Host Todd Welter goes over what recently claimed pitcher Ryan Rolison brings to the table along with the White Sox adding Oliver Dunn on a minor-league deal. He also goes over the White Sox doing the right thing by bringing back Tim Elko.

18:21 — Prospect Rankings Debate
Host Todd Welter pivots to recent prospect lists, notably Baseball Prospectus naming Caleb Bonemer the Sox’s top prospect. He explores differences between major publications and argues the system now features legit top-100 talent, marking significant progress for the franchise.

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FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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