Mazara quickly realized he was joining a White Sox team that had added All-Star catcher Yasmani Grandal to a promising young core. The White Sox then later signed more veterans in left-hander Gio Gonzalez, left-hander Dallas Keuchel and designated hitter Edwin Encarnacion.
As the moves were made, Mazara better understood the significance of landing in Chicago. He had joined a budding contender.
"We got a loaded lineup," Mazara said. "I feel sorry for the opposing pitching staff."
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The White Sox acquired the 24-year-old Mazara from the Rangers in a deal that sent minor league outfielder Steele Walker back to Texas. It was a low cost for the White Sox to acquire a player in Mazara whom they believe can improve their production in right field and who has untapped potential.
Once a prized prospect, Mazara has hit .261 with 79 homers across his first four years in the big leagues. While Mazara has more experience, the White Sox view him like outfielder Eloy Jimenez or third baseman Yoan Moncada -- they're all developing young prospects.
"I'm never satisfied with here I am right now," Mazara said. "I always want to keep getting better.
"The goal out there is to keep growing, to keep putting my best every time."
Mazara hit .268 with 19 homers, 66 RBIs and a .768 OPS in 116 games in 2019. To fulfill his potential, he must improve against left-handed pitching. Mazara posted a .220/.252/.394 slash line against southpaws last season compared to a .288/.344/.500 mark against right-handers. He has struggled to make consistent contact, posting a 23% strikeout rate in 2019.
Mazara had a .312 batting average on balls in play last season, and when he connects, it often travels a long way. The White Sox are confident in what Mazara has brought in his first four seasons, and they believe there's better in store.
Mazara hopes to be one of many White Sox players to break out in 2020.
"This is going to be a fun year," he said.