White Sox, Veteran Left-Hander Martín Pérez Finalize One-Year, $5 Million Contract

The Chicago White Sox have bolstered their pitching rotation by finalizing a one-year deal with veteran left-handed pitcher Martín Pérez. The contract, worth $5 million, adds experience and depth to a team looking to rebound from a disappointing 2024 season.

The 33-year-old Pérez brings a wealth of experience to the South Side. Over his 12-year Major League Baseball career, he has played for the Texas Rangers, Minnesota Twins, Boston Red Sox, and most recently, the Texas Rangers again. Pérez was a crucial part of the Rangers’ rotation in 2022, earning his first All-Star selection after posting a 12-8 record with a 2.89 ERA over 32 starts. While his performance has varied in recent years, he remains a reliable innings-eater who can stabilize a rotation.

White Sox General Manager Chris Getz expressed optimism about the acquisition, emphasizing Pérez’s veteran leadership and consistency on the mound. “Martín is a proven competitor who knows how to handle big moments. His presence will be invaluable for our younger pitchers as we aim to contend in 2025,” said Getz in a press release.

Pérez’s addition comes at a crucial time for the White Sox. After a disappointing 2024 campaign that saw the team finish fourth in the AL Central with a 73-89 record, the club has been active this offseason in retooling its roster. The pitching staff, in particular, has been a point of focus, with injuries and inconsistent performances plaguing the team last season. Pérez is expected to slot into the middle of the rotation, providing a stabilizing presence alongside Dylan Cease and Michael Kopech.

The deal also reflects the White Sox’s commitment to fiscal responsibility while addressing key needs. With a one-year contract, the team minimizes long-term financial risk while gaining flexibility for future roster moves. For Pérez, the deal offers an opportunity to showcase his value and potentially secure a longer-term contract next offseason.

“I’m excited to join the White Sox and help this team compete,” Pérez said in a statement. “Chicago has a talented group of players, and I’m looking forward to being part of something special.”

Pérez’s experience in high-pressure situations could prove invaluable for a team with playoff aspirations. In addition to his regular-season success, he has also pitched in the postseason, bringing a veteran presence to a clubhouse that includes emerging stars and established veterans.

The White Sox’s fan base has met the signing with cautious optimism. While some see Pérez as a dependable addition, others are eager to see if the team will make further moves to address other areas of need, such as the bullpen and offensive consistency.

As Spring Training approaches, the spotlight will be on Pérez and his ability to integrate into the White Sox’s rotation. If he can replicate the form that earned him All-Star recognition, the deal could prove to be a savvy move for a team eager to reclaim its place as a contender in the American League.

With Martín Pérez now in the fold, the White Sox continue their efforts to build a competitive roster for the 2025 season, signaling their intent to turn the page on last year’s struggles and push toward a brighter future.