The White Sox plan to move Grant Taylor from the bullpen into the rotation, while keeping Hagen Smith in relief. General manager Chris Getz called adding another starter the team’s “top priority,” with free agency and trades both under consideration. Chicago has promising depth but lacks an established top-of-the-rotation arm—and has payroll flexibility to pursue one as it builds on its rapid rise toward contention.

By the Numbers
  • Taylor, 24, recorded a 2.25 ERA and 31.5% strikeout rate over 84 innings in 2026.
  • The White Sox are projected to have a $108 million payroll next season, with five players on guaranteed contracts.
  • Chicago went from 121 losses in 2024 to genuine contention in 2026.
Yes, But

Taylor’s move offers upside, but he has limited experience as a starter and a history of Tommy John surgery. Chicago has several rotation candidates, yet their uneven results and injury concerns leave the team short on certainty and proven frontline talent.

State of Play
  • Taylor joins a rotation mix that includes Sean Burke, Davis Martin, Anthony Kay and Luis Castillo.
  • Getz says the team will explore both free-agent and trade options.
  • Chicago has significant payroll room, but Munetaka Murakami and Kay are scheduled to become free agents after 2027.
What’s Next

The Sox could target a starter from the next tier of free agents, including Trevor Rogers, Freddy Peralta, Michael King or Sonny Gray, or pursue a trade. A major rotation investment—and possible extension talks with Murakami or Miguel Vargas—could shape the team’s 2027 plans.

Bottom Line

Taylor’s transition strengthens the rotation from within, but Chicago’s clearest path to sustaining its momentum is adding an established starter while it has both payroll flexibility and a competitive window to seize.