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White Sox Seek Rotation Depth: Skenes a Potential Target

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, February 24th 2026 at 1:53 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

The Urgent Need for Rotation Depth

The most pressing concern for the White Sox remains building a competitive starting rotation. While Crochet's acquisition is a positive step, relying solely on him is a risky proposition. A strong and reliable second starter is crucial, and the team appears to be exploring options beyond their current core. This leads us to Paul Skenes, the once-heralded prospect of the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Skenes' 2024 debut wasn't the immediate success many predicted. However, writing him off entirely would be premature. His electrifying fastball and promising secondary pitches still paint a picture of a potential ace. A change of scenery, coupled with a more patient and strategically-focused coaching staff in Chicago, could unlock the talent that made him a top overall pick. The key for Skenes will be refining his command and learning to consistently locate his pitches. A more controlled approach, focusing on maximizing efficiency rather than overpowering hitters, could be the catalyst for a breakout season.

Position Player Potential: Seeking a Spark

The White Sox currently boast a solid core of position players, providing reasonable depth at most positions. However, the team is always on the lookout for players who can provide an unexpected spark, especially those capable of changing the momentum of a game. Junior Caminero, the Tampa Bay Rays' top prospect, fits this description perfectly.

Caminero has consistently displayed prodigious power in the minor leagues, routinely launching home runs and driving in runs. He's an aggressive hitter with a knack for getting on base and possesses the raw athleticism to potentially contribute defensively. While adjusting to major league pitching will undoubtedly present a challenge, Caminero's offensive potential is undeniable. If he can refine his plate discipline and make consistent contact, he could quickly become a valuable asset to the White Sox lineup. The ability to hit for both average and power, especially from a young player, would be a significant boost to the team's offensive capabilities.

The Bust Factor: Prospects Who Need to Prove Themselves

Not all prospects live up to the hype, and the White Sox must exercise caution when evaluating potential acquisitions. Overpaying for a player who ultimately fails to perform is a costly mistake that can hinder the team's long-term progress. Wyatt Langford, the Arizona Diamondbacks' top prospect, serves as a cautionary tale.

Langford entered the majors with lofty expectations, possessing a rare combination of speed, power, and defensive ability. However, he's struggled to consistently make solid contact, often falling victim to chasing pitches and getting jammed. While the talent is clearly there, Langford needs to demonstrate a significant improvement in his approach at the plate. He needs to develop a more discerning eye, recognizing pitches and making better decisions. If he can't adjust to the nuances of major league pitching, he risks becoming a bust, despite his immense potential.

Beyond the Names: Scouting for Hidden Gems

The White Sox' scouting department will also be tasked with identifying lesser-known prospects who might slip through the cracks. These players may not possess the same level of hype as Skenes, Caminero, or Langford, but they could offer valuable contributions at a reasonable cost. The key is to identify players with specific skill sets that align with the team's needs, and to provide them with the opportunity to develop and showcase their abilities.

The Road Ahead: Building a Contender

The 2026 season presents a crucial opportunity for the White Sox to establish themselves as a contender. While the current roster is solid, a few key additions - particularly in the starting rotation and potentially in the power-hitting department - could be the difference between a playoff berth and another rebuilding year. The success of these 'dark horse' prospects will be pivotal in determining the team's fate. A shrewd evaluation of potential busts, combined with a willingness to take calculated risks on high-upside players, will be essential as the White Sox navigate the final stages of roster construction.