Noah Schultz, LHP
The Chicago White Sox are known for their affinity for left-handed pitchers with unique arm slots, and Noah Schultz fits that mold perfectly. Standing tall at 6-foot-9, Schultz brings an imposing presence to the mound. With a devastating slider that has earned him an impressive 12 strikeouts per nine innings throughout his career, Schultz has the potential to be a force to be reckoned with in the majors. However, concerns have been raised about his fastball’s effectiveness against right-handed hitters, hinting at possible platoon issues in the future. If Schultz can make the necessary adjustments, he could solidify himself as a reliable mid-rotation starter for the White Sox. Keep an eye on him as he progresses towards a potential MLB debut in late summer 2025.
Kyle Teel, C
Kyle Teel, acquired from the Red Sox in the Garrett Crochet trade, is a promising young catcher with a well-rounded skill set. As the 14th pick in the 2023 draft, Teel has shown flashes of above-average tools, particularly from the left side of the plate. While he possesses solid raw power, his swing may limit him to doubles rather than home runs unless adjustments are made. Teel’s swing-and-miss tendencies could pose a challenge as he transitions to the big leagues, but his athleticism and defensive abilities make him a player to watch. Expect to see Teel make his MLB debut sooner rather than later, with a potential arrival as soon as spring 2025.
Hagen Smith, LHP
Hagen Smith, a left-handed pitcher drafted by the White Sox in the first round in 2024, embodies the team’s love for low-slot lefties. With a deceptive delivery stemming from his unique arm slot and release point, Smith has the tools to succeed at the major league level. However, concerns linger about his command, as he struggled with control during his collegiate career, issuing walks to over 10% of batters faced in his final season. Additionally, Smith lacks a reliable third pitch, which could limit his effectiveness against advanced hitters. Despite these challenges, Smith’s fastball-slider combination holds promise for a mid-rotation role, especially if the White Sox can help him refine his weaknesses. Keep an eye on Smith as he progresses towards a potential MLB debut in late summer 2025.