Chicago White Sox named top contender for Japanese free agent sensation

While they may have come up short in the ALDS, the Chicago White Sox are still riding high after earning their first playoff berth since 2021. Now, the franchise is looking to capitalize on that success.

At just under $118 million, the White Sox have the seventh-lowest payroll in all of baseball, via Spotrac. Chicago won’t suddenly spend like the Dodgers overnight. But their recent success should convince the franchise to infuse the roster with more talent.

If Chicago were to spend big, it seems likely it would be for a top flight pitcher. The White Sox utilized their bullpen heavily throughout the postseason. Adding an ace to the rotation would give the team more stability.

An extra bat shouldn’t be ruled out either. Especially with the caliber of player available in the 2027 free agency class.

Chicago White Sox could target Teruaki Sato

Third baseman/outfielder Teruaki Sato just won the NPB Triple Crown after hitting .306 with 39 home runs and 106 RBIs over 143 games. When he is officially posted, Sato will be highly coveted around the league.

Because of that, the 2025 Central League MVP will be highly coveted across the league. Still, signing Sato is an avenue Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report argues the White Sox should still pursue. Chicago was ranked third on the free agent’s top landing spots.

“The White Sox also have a need at designated hitter, unless they think the fifth time’s the charm with Andrew Benintendi,” Miller wrote. “He remains under contract for one more season, with a $14.5 million base salary in 2027. But if they’re serious about running it back again as a postseason team, the last 20 percent of that dead-weight contract shouldn’t prevent them from pursuing Sato.”

Over his six years in NPB, Sato has hit .271 with 163 home runs, 518 RBIs and 42 stolen bases. Assuming his game translates to MLB, the five-time All-Star would give the White Sox’s offense an immediate boost. Seeing as Chicago finished the regular season ranked fifth in runs scored (776), Sato’s addition would only make the South Siders a more serious threat.

Numerous other teams are having the same idea, which could price the White Sox out on Sato. But Chicago taking a big swing would prove they aren’t looking to give up their spot at the postseason table.

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