WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. —In a recent trade maneuver, the Chicago White Sox procured infielder Gage Workman from their crosstown rivals, the Chicago Cubs, in exchange for financial considerations. This exchange occurred following the Cubs’ decision to designate Workman for assignment earlier in the week. To accommodate Workman on their lineup, the White Sox made the decision to designate infielder Nick Maton for assignment.
White Sox’s manager, Will Venable, expressed his enthusiasm for Workman’s potential contribution to the team. “We’re really excited about the quality of athlete he is,” Venable commented. “He’s got some power batting left-handed, and his versatility on defense is promising. He can challenge right-hand pitchers and provide us with flexibility off the bench whether it’s running the bases or bolstering our defense. We’re eager to see his impact on the field.”
Additionally, the White Sox orchestrated a separate transaction by trading outfielder Travis Jankowski to the Tampa Bay Rays, also for cash considerations. Jankowski, aged 33, had a brief stint with the White Sox, hitting .214 with three hits in 14 at-bats over seven games.
Gage Workman, 25 years old, was initially picked by the Detroit Tigers in the 2020 Rule 5 draft. According to the major league portion guidelines, workman must remain on the MLB roster throughout the upcoming season or else face the process of clearing waivers and potentially being reinstated to his original team for a nominal fee.
During his time with the Cubs, which currently lead the NL Central, Workman played in nine games achieving three hits out of 14 at-bats and driving in two runs. Cubs manager Craig Counsell reflected on Workman’s situation, acknowledging the difficulties faced by Rule 5 draft picks, especially on a team with high expectations. “It’s always challenging for those picks, especially in our team’s context. It’s fair to say he didn’t receive a fair shot, but we couldn’t provide the opportunity he needed,” said Counsell.
Heading into their match against the Athletics, the White Sox were struggling at the bottom of the AL Central standings with a 6-20 record. Workman’s upward trajectory started when the Detroit Tigers chose him in the fourth round of the amateur draft in 2020. While in minor league play, he recorded a .248 average with 57 home runs and 263 RBIs. This move marks the White Sox’s stride towards strengthening their roster with fresh talent and potential.