The Chicago White Sox have signed infielder Brandon Drury to a minor league contract, which includes an invitation to join the major league spring training camp. The announcement was made on Friday. Additionally, the team claimed left-handed pitcher Brandon Eisert off waivers from the Tampa Bay Rays and secured a minor league agreement with infielder Tristan Gray.
Brandon Drury, who is 32 years old, is looking to bounce back after a challenging 2024 season during which he hit .169, along with four home runs and 15 runs batted in over 97 games with the Los Angeles Angels. This marks a contrast to his performance in 2022, where he achieved career-best stats with a batting average of .263, totaling 28 home runs and 87 RBIs while playing for both the Cincinnati Reds and the San Diego Padres. In his inaugural season with the Angels in 2023, he also had a notable showing with 26 home runs and 83 RBIs.
Throughout his career, Drury has demonstrated versatility by starting in various positions, including first base, second base, third base, shortstop, left field, and right field. His broad skill set may provide valuable options for the White Sox in the upcoming season.
Brandon Eisert, 27, made his major league debut last season, covering 6 2/3 innings and allowing three runs across three relief outings for Toronto. He was picked up by Tampa Bay in a trade early in the year but was later designated for assignment after the Rays secured infielder Ha-Seong Kim.
In a roster move to accommodate Eisert, the White Sox designated right-handed pitcher Steven Wilson for assignment. Last season, Wilson recorded a 1-6 record with a 5.71 ERA across 40 relief appearances for Chicago. The team is looking for fresh talent to bolster their pitching staff, and this change reflects that desire.
Tristan Gray, at 28 years old, has taken the field in 17 major league games throughout the last two seasons, posting a batting average of .152 with one home run. Meanwhile, the White Sox also announced that outfielder Zach DeLoach has cleared waivers and will be assigned to Triple-A Charlotte.
These recent roster moves indicate a strategic effort by the Chicago White Sox to enhance their lineup and pitching staff as they prepare for the upcoming season. The addition of players such as Drury and Eisert, along with the retention of others, shows the team’s commitment to improving its performance on the field.
