White Sox Secure Jordan Hicks Acquisition

The White Sox have made a significant move by acquiring right-hander Jordan Hicks from the Red Sox. The deal includes pitching prospect David Sandlin heading to Chicago as well. In return, Boston receives right-handed pitcher Gage Ziehl and a player yet to be named.

Details of the Trade

According to reports, the Red Sox are also including cash in the transaction. Specifically, they are sending $8 million to the White Sox, who will absorb the majority of Hicks’s salary. This part of the agreement allows the Red Sox to reduce their payroll significantly.

Financial Implications

This trade appears to be a strategic move for Boston, clearing $16 million of Hicks’s remaining $24 million contract. Following this trade, the team’s luxury tax payroll drops to approximately $258 million. This amount keeps them just below the second luxury tax threshold of $264 million.

• Trade Components:
  • Jordan Hicks to White Sox
  • David Sandlin to White Sox
  • Gage Ziehl to Red Sox
  • Cash considerations: $8 million from Red Sox to White Sox
• Payroll Impact:
  • Remaining salary cleared: $16 million
  • Current payroll: $258 million
  • Luxury tax threshold: $264 million

Player Profiles

Jordan Hicks

Jordan Hicks was a key figure in the Red Sox’s pitching lineup. He is now set to make an impact for the White Sox, who must create space on their 40-man roster for both Hicks and Sandlin.

David Sandlin

Sandlin, ranked as Boston’s eleventh prospect by Baseball America, faced challenges last season. Although he struggled in Triple-A, he maintained a solid 3.61 ERA in Double-A, showcasing a 25.4% strikeout rate. His move to Chicago opens up opportunities for him in a big league rotation.

Gage Ziehl

In return, the Red Sox acquire Gage Ziehl, who was Chicago’s 21st ranked prospect. Acquired in a previous trade with the Yankees, Ziehl recorded a 4.12 ERA across different minor league levels last season. His fastball has potential, but his overall effectiveness remains in question.

Future Prospects

As the teams prepare for the upcoming season, both Jordan Hicks and David Sandlin could play significant roles. Hicks is expected to bolster the White Sox’s pitching staff, while Sandlin could find immediate opportunities in Chicago’s rotation.

This trade signifies a pivotal moment for both franchises as they maneuver through the offseason, aiming to strengthen their competitive edges for the 2026 season.