The Chicago White Sox have made a strategic move by acquiring veteran right-hander Jordan Hicks and pitching prospect David Sandlin from the Boston Red Sox. This trade comes as a continuation of their financial reallocation efforts, following the Luis Robert Jr. trade. While Hicks is a well-known name, the real value lies in Sandlin, who has been a key target for the White Sox. Hicks, 29, was recently traded for the second time in a year, after a blockbuster deal with the San Francisco Giants. He's owed $25 million over the next two seasons, but the White Sox agreed to cover $17 million due to the inclusion of Sandlin. The White Sox also acquired two additional players, though their identities remain undisclosed. This move clears $20 million, which was previously saved in the Robert trade, and has been utilized to sign Seranthony Dominguez, Austin Hays, and now Hicks. Hicks' performance has been inconsistent, with a 5.19 ERA in 177 innings, but he's hoping to regain his form. The Red Sox, on the other hand, sought to trade from their starting pitching depth, and with no clear path for Sandlin, they were able to dump most of Hicks' salary. Sandlin, 24, split time between Double-A and Triple-A in 2025, posting a 4.50 ERA and striking out 107 batters over 106 innings. His arsenal, including a fastball that can reach 100 mph, a sweeper, and a splitter, could give him a chance at a rotation spot with the White Sox this season. To accommodate Hicks and Sandlin, the White Sox designated Jairo Iriarte and Drew Romo for assignment, making room on their 40-man roster.
