(670 The Score) The White Sox are “extraordinarily unlikely” to sign outfielder George Springer in free agency this offseason, Jeff Passan of ESPN reported.
A three-time All-Star and former World Series MVP, Springer is one of the best players available on the open market this winter. While the White Sox have a need in the outfield, it’s in right field. That matters because the 31-year-old Springer is seeking a contract that’s reflective of being a star center fielder, Passan reported, which figures to take him into the $100 million-plus range and out of the White Sox’s preferred price range. The Blue Jays and Mets are among the teams showing serious interest in Springer.
The White Sox are more likely to pursue Michael Brantley to fill their need in right field, Passan reported. Brantley, 33, hit .300 with an .840 OPS in 46 games for the Astros this past season. He’s also a three-time All-Star and hit .311 with 22 homers, 90 RBIs and an .875 OPS in 148 games in 2019.
The White Sox have the money to make a splash in free agency this winter and further put themselves in the position to do so by non-tendering right fielder Nomar Mazara and left-hander Carlos Rodon last week. Their exits freed up about $10 million more for the White Sox to use should they choose to do so.
The White Sox also could use another frontline starter, be it in free agency or the trade market. Reigning National League Cy Young winner Trevor Bauer is the best pitcher available in free agency. He’s expected to garner more than $30 million annually on his new deal, but what the total bill might be is unclear due to uncertainty about the length of contract he desires. In the past, Bauer has teased the idea of signing a series of one-year contracts, though many believe he will seek a multi-year deal of some sort in free agency.
The largest contract the White Sox have ever awarded in franchise history was a $73-million deal to catcher Yasmani Grandal last offseason. Star center Luis Robert signed a six-year, $50-million deal last January that could be worth up to $90 million if the White Sox exercise all the team options on it.