The Chicago White Sox have made a strategic move, acquiring veteran right-hander Jordan Hicks and pitching prospect David Sandlin in a trade with the Boston Red Sox. This deal comes as the White Sox look to rebuild and improve their roster, following a challenging 2024 season. The trade is part of a broader strategy to reallocate funds saved from the Luis Robert Jr. trade to the New York Mets, with the White Sox already deploying the savings on key players like Seranthony Dominguez and Austin Hays.
Hicks, 29, is a familiar face to the Red Sox, having been traded to them from the San Francisco Giants in the Rafael Devers blockbuster. He's owed $25 million over the next two seasons, but the White Sox agreed to cover $17 million of that amount due to the inclusion of Sandlin. Hicks' performance has been inconsistent, with a 5.19 ERA in 177 innings since signing a long-term deal with San Francisco before the 2024 season. Despite his strong home run rate, Hicks has struggled against good contact, with opponents hitting .277/.364/.425 against him.
Sandlin, 24, is a promising pitching prospect who split time between Double-A and Triple-A in 2025, posting a 4.50 ERA and striking out 107 batters over 106 innings. His fastball can reach 100 mph, and he possesses a sweeper and splitter, giving him a chance to secure a rotation spot with the White Sox this season. The Red Sox, seeking to trade from their deep well of starting pitching, were willing to part with Sandlin to dump the majority of Hicks' salary, which is a significant factor in the trade.
To facilitate the trade, the White Sox designated right-hander Jairo Iriarte and catcher Drew Romo for assignment, making room for Hicks and Sandlin on the 40-man roster. Gage Ziehl, a 22-year-old right-hander, was also involved in the trade, having been drafted by the Chicago Cubs in 2021 and later selected by the New York Yankees in the fourth round of the 2024 draft. Ziehl's first professional season saw him throw 107 innings over 22 appearances with a 4.12 ERA and a 4.74 strikeout-walk ratio.
This trade marks a significant step in the White Sox's rebuilding process, as they aim to improve their performance after a disappointing 2024 season. The acquisition of Hicks and Sandlin is a strategic move to strengthen their pitching staff and provide a boost to their chances of success in the upcoming season.
