Exciting Developments Ahead for the Chicago White Sox in 2026!
After enduring three consecutive seasons with over 100 losses, the Chicago White Sox appear poised for a turnaround as they enter 2026. But what’s behind this newfound optimism? Let’s dive into it!
The team has made several significant moves in the offseason, including the acquisition of the Japanese superstar Munetaka Murakami, and the signing of left-handed pitcher Anthony Kay and right-handed pitcher Seranthony Domínguez, both on two-year contracts. Additionally, outfielder Austin Hays has joined the ranks, and center fielder Luisangel Acuña was secured through a trade. With these strategic additions, the White Sox are clearly aiming to change their fortunes.
However, the transformation isn't solely dependent on outside talent. During their extensive rebuilding phase, the White Sox have cultivated a robust pipeline of prospects that promise to play pivotal roles in the team's future. In 2025, players like Colson Montgomery, Chase Meidroth, and Kyle Teel already began to leave their mark, and there are numerous other prospects in the organization eager to make an impact in the upcoming season.
Here’s a closer look at three standout White Sox prospects who could potentially shine in 2026:
1. LHP Noah Schultz (Ranked No. 58 by Just Baseball)
Noah Schultz stands tall at six feet ten inches, making him an imposing figure on the mound. At just 22 years old, this left-handed pitcher utilizes a diverse five-pitch arsenal, which includes a powerful sinker and a sharp slider, along with a curveball, changeup, and four-seamer. Interestingly, he also experimented with a cutter during his time in Triple-A, throwing it just 1.3% of the time.
Since being drafted in 2022, Schultz has showcased impressive skills in the minor leagues, though 2025 posed some challenges due to injury setbacks. He recorded a 4.68 ERA and a 4.30 FIP across Double-A and Triple-A. However, those figures were somewhat misleading; a rough 16.1 innings in Triple-A due to right patellar tendinitis significantly affected his statistics. After being sidelined in July, he only returned for a brief five-inning appearance in September. On a positive note, reports indicate that he is making good progress this offseason.
In 2025, Schultz struck out 23.2% of opposing batters but struggled with command, walking 13.8% of hitters, leading to a concerning K-BB% of just 9.5%. This was notably his worst performance in this regard, as his walk rate nearly doubled compared to his previous high of 6.9%.
There’s reason for hope, as Schultz mentioned that his knee issue was a persistent problem throughout the season. If his recovery is indeed progressing positively, fans can expect him to regain his form from before 2025. While he might spend some time refining his skills in the minors initially, a call-up by June is very much within reach. It’s highly likely we’ll see Schultz making his MLB debut in 2026.
2. OF Braden Montgomery (Ranked No. 73 by Just Baseball)
Braden Montgomery, who was a key part of the return for Garret Crochet last offseason, showcased his potential in 2025. At the age of 22, this switch-hitting outfielder climbed to Double-A by the end of his inaugural professional season.
Over 121 games in the minor leagues, Montgomery posted an impressive slash line of .270/.360/.444, hitting 12 home runs. His performance remained consistently strong, with a wRC+ above 133 at every level he played in 2025.
One of the factors contributing to Montgomery's success was his ability to hit line drives, which increased at each level: 13.2% in Low-A, 21.1% in High-A, and peaking at 32.1% in Double-A.
However, there is a slight concern regarding his strikeout rate in Double-A, where he struck out approximately 28.7% of the time. Most of the strikeout issues arose against left-handed pitchers, as he struck out an alarming 40.5% of the time in 37 plate appearances against them, compared to 24.3% against right-handers in 107 plate appearances. While the sample size is small, Montgomery’s development as a switch hitter will be an intriguing aspect to follow.
Currently not on the 40-man roster, it’s unlikely we will see Montgomery on the major league squad come Opening Day. However, if he maintains his upward trajectory from 2025, a promotion around early May or June could certainly happen.
3. RHP Tanner McDougal
Tanner McDougal has emerged as one of the most promising talents in the White Sox farm system following his fourth professional season. At just 22 years old, he enjoyed a breakout year in 2025 and appears ready to step up to the majors.
After encountering difficulties in earlier seasons, McDougal excelled in 2025 while splitting his time between High-A and Double-A. He produced a commendable 3.26 ERA and a 3.15 FIP over 113.1 innings pitched, complemented by a solid 3.20 xFIP and an impressive 28.3% strikeout rate.
Notably, McDougal not only excels at striking out hitters but also maintains an acceptable walk rate of around 10.2%, which aligns well with his high strikeout numbers. The former fifth-round draft pick has also demonstrated an ability to induce ground balls, averaging 45.3% in 2025, consistent with his career norms.
With a strong showing in spring training, McDougal has a real chance to secure a spot on the Opening Day roster. Scouts have rated his fastball and slider at 60 on the 20-80 scale, while his curveball is considered average at 50, and his changeup is rated below average at 30. His impressive performance last year suggests that his success was not merely a fluke, indicating he could be MLB-ready sooner rather than later.
It’s evident that whenever McDougal makes his major league debut, he will provide crucial support to the rotation of the Chicago White Sox.
