The Chicago White Sox are showing signs of progress in their rebuild after three seasons of heavy losses. Key moves include signing Japanese star Munetaka Murakami and securing the top pick in the 2026 draft. General manager Chris Getz expressed optimism about the team's organic growth.
After enduring three consecutive seasons with over 100 losses each, the Chicago White Sox remain uncompetitive in the American League Central. Yet, the organization views recent developments as steps toward sustained success.
A major highlight is the signing of 25-year-old Munetaka Murakami to a two-year, $34 million contract, announced at a press conference on Monday. The deal was kept remarkably secret until the reveal. "I’m still surprised that it was able to stay as quiet as it did," Getz said. "In my history of the White Sox organization, this might be one of the bigger wins in regard to being able to keep it quiet."
Murakami brings power-hitting potential from the left side, bolstering a young lineup. Getz noted, "When you are looking at the power potential from the left side and just envisioning that in our lineup on a regular basis, gosh, what a boost I felt like it could be." In a community gesture, Murakami pledged $10,000 to the St. James Food Pantry and grocery certificates to 100 Chicago families facing food insecurity.
The team also won the No. 1 pick in the 2026 draft lottery during December's Winter Meetings, expected to select UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky, a prospect with franchise-altering upside.
On the field, the White Sox posted a 28-37 record after the All-Star break, driven by young talent. Executive vice president Brooks Boyer reported increased sales in season tickets and premium seats. "Absolutely, we are seeing an uptick," Boyer said. "People are starting to buy in, and you are starting to see the formation of something that could be pretty darn good. It wasn’t the rental veterans that pieced this together. It was the young guys that were helping us win games last year."
Shortstop Colson Montgomery exemplifies the progress: after early struggles, he debuted on July 4, hit 21 home runs in 71 games, and finished fifth in American League Rookie of the Year voting. Under new manager Will Venable and Getz's leadership, the front office has added fresh voices.
"We just feel like the momentum is real," Getz told MLB.com. "We feel it’s an improved ballclub, and you know it’s still fairly early in the offseason. There’s going to be opportunities to make additions, and we’ll stay at it."