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White Sox Target 'Dark Horses' to Boost Roster

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 17:33 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Illinois, Washington, UNITED STATES

White Sox Seek Value in Untapped Potential: Examining Dark Horse Roster Candidates and the High-Risk, High-Reward of Emerson Hancock

The Chicago White Sox, perpetually rebuilding, find themselves once again navigating the choppy waters of roster construction. With limited financial flexibility preventing a splashy free agency haul, the team is shrewdly focusing on undervalued players - the "dark horses" - who might provide significant contributions without breaking the bank. This strategy hinges on identifying talent overlooked by other organizations, players whose trajectories haven't quite met initial expectations, or those simply needing a change of scenery. Let's dive deeper into the potential candidates the White Sox are reportedly considering, and the particular gamble associated with Seattle Mariner's former top prospect, Emerson Hancock.

The Pitching Carousel: Searching for Bullpen Stability

The White Sox bullpen, a consistent source of anxiety for fans in recent seasons, is a primary area of concern. While a closer-by-committee approach may be employed initially, identifying reliable arms capable of consistently delivering in high-leverage situations is crucial. The team is looking at several pitchers with checkered pasts but potentially bright futures. Tommy John, formerly a promising Dodgers prospect, represents a low-cost, high-risk proposition. Injuries and inconsistency have derailed his progress, but a change of environment could unlock some of his former potential. Similarly, Matt Koch, previously with the Diamondbacks, has shown flashes of brilliance but similarly lacks consistency - a common thread among these "dark horse" targets.

Taylor Clarke, acquired by the Mariners in the deal sending Taijuan Walker elsewhere, is an intriguing case. While his command has been problematic, his powerful arm is undeniable. Being out of options adds a layer of urgency for the Mariners, potentially making him available at a reasonable price. For the White Sox, the appeal lies in a possible reclamation project, hoping to refine Clarke's mechanics and harness his raw talent. The key will be identifying whether his struggles are correctable or simply indicative of a ceiling lower than initially projected.

Position Player Depth: Filling the Gaps

Beyond the pitching staff, the White Sox are also exploring options to bolster their position player depth. Jake Burger, a recent acquisition via trade, presents a tantalizing power bat, if he can remain healthy. A former first-round pick, Burger's inability to stay on the field has hindered his development. The White Sox are betting that a change of scenery and a dedicated training regimen can unlock his offensive potential. Ryan Aguilar, a free agent with versatility in the outfield, offers a valuable commodity - the ability to play all three positions. In a league increasingly emphasizing roster flexibility, Aguilar's adaptability makes him an attractive, low-risk addition. Heliot Ramos, once a highly touted Giants prospect, is another intriguing option. While his hitting requires improvement, his speed and strong arm could contribute defensively. Like Hancock, Ramos represents a calculated gamble - a potential reward that offsets the inherent risk.

Emerson Hancock: The Mariner's Misstep and the White Sox's Gamble

However, the most compelling - and arguably riskiest - proposition is Emerson Hancock. Drafted sixth overall in 2021, Hancock was once considered a cornerstone of the Mariners' future. Sadly, his development has stagnated, plagued by command issues and inconsistent performances. The Mariners seem to be signaling a shift in direction, and Hancock's future with the organization is uncertain. The White Sox, recognizing the potential that once warranted a top-ten draft pick, might be tempted to take a flier on him.

But this is a true lottery ticket. Hancock's struggles are significant, and there's no guarantee a change of scenery will solve his underlying issues. The White Sox would be essentially inheriting a project that the Mariners have largely given up on. The upside, however, is substantial. If the team's pitching coaches can unlock Hancock's potential, they could acquire a front-line starter at a fraction of the cost. Conversely, they could end up with another failed prospect, a costly reminder of the inherent risks associated with such ventures. This isn't just about baseball; it's about risk assessment and the careful allocation of limited resources. For the White Sox, acquiring Hancock represents a gamble that could either accelerate their rebuild or set them back further. The decision will hinge on a thorough assessment of his underlying mechanics, mental approach, and potential for improvement.