Full Breakdown
White Sox Spring Training Insights: Hagen Smith and New Additions
2/25/2026, 1:29:38 PM
Promising Prospects: Hagen Smith's Development
Hagen Smith, a left-handed pitcher for the Chicago White Sox, is looking to improve upon a challenging 2025 season where he recorded a 3.57 ERA but struggled with control, walking 56 batters in 75 2/3 innings at Double-A Birmingham. Following a successful stint in the Arizona Fall League, where he posted a 2.57 ERA over 14 innings with 21 strikeouts, Smith expressed optimism about his performance this spring. “I felt very convicted with everything I was throwing in the fall league,” Smith stated, emphasizing his commitment to high standards and personal growth. He is expected to start the season at Triple-A Charlotte but could make his MLB debut by midseason.
New Faces in the Lineup: Munetaka Murakami
Munetaka Murakami, a Japanese slugger who signed a two-year, $34 million contract in December, is anticipated to be a fan favorite in his first MLB season. Manager Will Venable highlighted Murakami's serious approach to the game while also noting his engaging personality. “He’s got a big personality, funny dude, and definitely likes to joke around with the guys,” Venable remarked, indicating that Murakami is fitting in well with the team dynamics.
Injury Updates and Player Performance
The White Sox are currently managing several player injuries. Center fielder Everson Pereira, acquired in an offseason trade with the Tampa Bay Rays, is dealing with tightness in his right side, and there is no timeline for his return. Venable emphasized the importance of caution with such injuries to avoid prolonged absences. Additionally, versatile infielder Tanner Murray, who joined the team in the same trade, has shown promise, driving in three runs in his third game at shortstop.
Lenyn Sosa, who played 54 games at third base in 2024 but only 18 last season, is also being utilized in multiple positions to maximize his at-bats. He had a productive outing with two hits in four plate appearances during a recent game against the Seattle Mariners.
Game Highlights and Performance Metrics
In a recent spring training game, the White Sox defeated the Seattle Mariners 12-10, showcasing a strong offensive performance with 16 hits. Brooks Baldwin led the team with three hits, including a double and two singles. Left-hander Anthony Kay, a free-agent signing with a strong track record in Japan, made his first spring start, allowing one run and one hit over two innings. Kay noted feeling over-amped during his return to a major-league uniform after a hiatus since 2023.
Official Statements & Responses
Manager Will Venable provided updates on player conditions and performance, stating, “We’ll see where [Colson Montgomery] is at [Wednesday],” referring to the shortstop's unspecified illness. He also reiterated the importance of managing injuries carefully, particularly with Pereira's situation.
What's Next for the White Sox
The White Sox are set to face the Cincinnati Reds in their next spring training game, with Davis Martin scheduled to pitch. As the team continues to prepare for the upcoming season, the focus remains on player development and addressing injury concerns.
