While it is unlikely that the White Sox make any significant free agent additions to the roster before the season starts, they will likely continue to add high-upside players on minor league contracts with an invitation to major league camp.
This is exactly what the White Sox did today, as it was reported by Daryl Van Schouwen that they have signed relief pitcher James Karinchak to a minor league deal.
White Sox agree to terms with RHP James Karinchak on a minor-league contract which includes a non-roster invite to spring training.
— Daryl Van Schouwen (@CST_soxvan) January 25, 2025
People may remember Karinchak from the Cleveland Guardians, as he was a very good reliever for them for five years. However, Karinchak did not pitch in the 2024 season due to a right shoulder injury. He would then elect free agency at the end of the season, now signing with the White Sox.
This is a fantastic signing for the White Sox, as Karinchak has always been an above average relief pitcher. He owns a career 3.10 ERA with a 1.183 WHIP, to go along with an amazing 13.9 K/9 ratio.
James Karinchak has pitched 13.2 innings.....
— Fuzzy (@fuzzyfromyt) August 21, 2020
..... he has 26 STRIKEOUTS LOL pic.twitter.com/UD8u6XZVqm
His best season came in 2022 where he had a 2.08 ERA over 39 innings, striking out 62 batters in that timeframe.
James Karinchak, 97mph ⛽️...and loses his mind. pic.twitter.com/bLfuU5oPve
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) August 2, 2022
Karinchak is still only 29 so this is a high upside signing for the White Sox, as he could easily be flipped at the deadline if he can pitch like he has throughout his career. If not, the White Sox lose nothing, as it is only a minor league deal.
While Karinchak has had some issues with walks, his stuff is too electric to pass up on, as the White Sox could use some talent in the back end of the bullpen. Karinchak only has 15 saves in his career, but he could find himself in a closer role this season if he can get back to where he was pre-injury.
This is a tremendous low-risk, high-reward signing for the White Sox and arguably their best minor league signing of the offseason. If Karinchak is ready to go for Spring Training and makes the team, he instantly becomes the most accomplished reliever in the bullpen and would strengthen one of the worst units in baseball last season.
