Former A's pitcher could be the 'x-factor' for the White Sox in 2026

After a historically bad season in 2024, the Chicago White Sox rebounded in a small way. After going 41-121 in 2024, they were able to improve their record by nearly 20 wins, finishing at 60-102 in 2025. 

That is a small improvement, but there were also more things to cheer about last season for fans. Colson Montgomery made his debut and showed little difficulty putting the ball over the fence against big-league pitching. 

Parlay that with an aggressive offseason that included the surprise signing of Munetaka Murakami, and this team is trending in the right direction. 

MORE: White Sox projected Opening Day lineup takes pressure off Munetaka Murakami

Former A's pitcher could be the 'x-factor' for the White Sox in 2026

The rotation was a weak point for the club in 2025. They finished the regular season with a 4.26 ERA, which was good for 20th across the league. 

Understanding they need to bring in some arms, the front office came to terms with Anthony Kay and Sean Newcomb, and according to Bleacher Report's Joel Retuer, he believes Newcomb could be the "x-factor" for Chicago. 

"After struggling to a 6.66 ERA in 52.2 innings in the three previous seasons, Sean Newcomb broke camp with a spot in a banged up Red Sox rotation last year. The 32-year-old was eventually traded to the A's where he posted a 1.75 ERA in 51.1 innings out of the bullpen, and now he will look for that success to carry over in a return to the rotation for the rebuilding White Sox."

Newcomb is coming off a solid year split with the Boston Red Sox and Athletics and is currently penciled in as the White Sox's No. 4 starter. He will serve as one of the two left-handed options for the starting rotation, and with his recent success, may be one to watch out for at the trade deadline if he plays up to expectations.

More MLB news:

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• Athletics projected to sign former Rays pitcher to round out rotation
• Twins projected to come to terms with former NL home run leader
• Marlins predicted to sign former Gold Glove winner in latest lineup projection
• The new-look Cubs Opening Day lineup projection after the Alex Bregman blockbuster