White Sox announce 25 Spring Training invites

They started by announcing the 11 players who signed minor-league contracts that included invitations to Spring Training:

• RHP: Justin Anderson, Joe Barlow, Jake Cousins, Chad Kuhl, Jake Woodford
• C: Chuckie Robinson
• INF: Danny Mendick
• OF: Rafael Ortega, Mark Payton, Brett Phillips, Kevin Pillar

Many of these were well-known from earlier this offseason. However, one surprise was the return of Danny Mendick – a minor league signing that had not been previously announced. The 29-year-old spent his 2023 season with the Mets, hitting .185/.232/.277 across 69 plate appearances. He spent his first four seasons with the White Sox before tearing his ACL during his 2022 season. He will be a welcome addition back to the ballclub as a depth piece.

In addition, the club announced 14 additional non-roster invites to Spring Training:

• RHP: Jonathan Cannon, Jordan Leasure, Nick Nastrini, Edgar Navarro, Nick Padilla, Lane Ramsey
• LHP: Ky Bush, Fraser Ellard
• C: Adam Hackenberg, Carlos Perez, Edgar Quero
• INF: Tim Elko, Colson Montgomery, Zach Remillard

Leasure and Nastrini are among the players who are expected to compete for playing time at the major league level at some point this season. The list could expand to players such as Edgar Quero, Carlos Perez, Lane Ramsey, and Colson Montgomery, depending on how the season goes for them. Zach Remillard is likely among those who will battle for a utility role throughout the season. Tim Elko is likely to begin the season as the Barons’ first baseman, while Jonathan Cannon will look to build on a strong 2023 season and continue to rise throughout the rankings.

Pitchers and catchers are scheduled to report for the White Sox on Wednesday, February 14.